Israel-Lebanon talks conclude in Rome, pilot zones agreed, IDF may begin withdrawal in days

US-brokered talks between Lebanon and Israel have concluded in Rome, with both nations reportedly agreeing on the necessity of dismantling and disarming Hezbollah. An Israeli official indicated that progress was made on a plan that could lead to Israeli forces withdrawing from parts of southern Lebanon in the coming days.

The framework deal, established on June 26, includes a "pilot zone" project. This initiative aims to facilitate Hezbollah's disarmament and the deployment of Lebanese troops, followed by a gradual IDF withdrawal. Two specific pilot zones have been designated to assess the effective implementation of Lebanese sovereignty under agreed conditions, with verification by the US. Discussions are ongoing to manage the removal of weapons while respecting Lebanese property laws.

A US official characterized the two-day talks as "productive and positive." They stated, "We agreed on the structure and guidelines for the pilot zone process, to be finalized and implemented in the coming days." Notably, UNIFIL and UNTSO were not part of the discussions or the proposed verification model.

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We agreed on the structure and guidelines for the pilot zone process, to be finalized and implemented in the coming days.