Israel-Lebanon talks resume in Rome while Hezbollah chief slams Aoun as 'biased, divisive'

A new round of talks between Israel and Lebanon commenced in Rome on Tuesday morning, aiming to address ongoing security and border-related issues. The discussions follow previous rounds held in Washington and Rome.

Shortly before the talks began, Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem denounced the negotiations and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun's involvement. In a televised address, Qassem stated that the talks would only bring "shame, humiliation, and successive compromises" for Lebanon. He further accused President Aoun of not acting as an arbiter but becoming "biased and divisive," which he deemed incompatible with the president's role and Lebanon's strength.

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nothing but shame, humiliation, and successive compromises

Meanwhile, the Israeli military announced the conclusion of its eight-month operation in southern Lebanon. The IDF's 401st Armored Brigade reported destroying over 1,200 Hezbollah structures, seizing weapons, dismantling hundreds of meters of underground tunnel systems, and eliminating more than 60 Hezbollah terrorists. The military also located over 600 weapons, including rocket-propelled grenades, anti-tank missiles, and various firearms.

An Israeli official previously told The Jerusalem Post that during the last round of talks on July 15, both parties agreed on the necessity of disarming and dismantling Hezbollah. Previous talks have also been held in Washington D.C.

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not acted as an arbiter, nor as a unifying figure, but has become biased and divisive, which is incompatible with his role and with Lebanon's strength.