Lebanon-Israel Talks: A Cumulative Process or ‘Open-Ended Negotiations’?

Lebanon and Israel's seventh round of talks in Rome concluded after three days without a breakthrough on a new pilot zone, though discussions on a verification mechanism and other issues are ongoing. The persistence of tensions in South Lebanon means further rounds are expected.

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The negotiations appear to be preparations for a later, more decisive phase, establishing a mechanism or model for the Lebanese army to take over and deploy in southern Lebanon.

Lebanese lawmakers hold differing views on the value of continuing the dialogue. Most believe the outcome of a single round cannot be judged, arguing that successive meetings can yield incremental gains and pave the way for more advanced stages, despite setbacks and ground violations. However, critics warn that the lack of tangible results risks turning the effort into "open-ended negotiations" that primarily benefit Israel.

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These are not open-ended negotiations, but a natural progression.

Ghassan Hasbani, an MP from the Strong Republic bloc, described the current talks as an effort to develop mechanisms for stabilizing southern Lebanon. He acknowledged that conditions have not yet reached a point where renewed war or continued violations can be ruled out. "The negotiations appear to be preparations for a later, more decisive phase, establishing a mechanism or model for the Lebanese army to take over and deploy in southern Lebanon," Hasbani told Asharq Al-Awsat. He stressed that these are not open-ended negotiations but a natural progression, serving as an additional avenue for developing stability mechanisms rather than leading to major, final agreements.

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I see the current dialogue as a new or additional avenue for developing mechanisms to maintain stability in southern Lebanon. It is not leading to major, final or decisive agreements, but it is a step forward.

Conversely, Mohammad Khawaja, an MP from the Development and Liberation bloc, argued that Lebanon has entered a phase of "open-ended negotiations." He stated that Israel uses dialogue as an end in itself without offering political or military concessions. Citing statements from Israeli leaders about not withdrawing from Lebanon, the Golan Heights, or Gaza, Khawaja asserted that Tel Aviv has already decided against making concessions. His bloc opposes direct negotiations and criticizes the framework agreement, believing it shifts the problem to Lebanon while benefiting Israel. Khawaja maintained that Israel profits from prolonging dialogue, citing its lengthy negotiations with Egypt and the Palestinians.

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Israel negotiates but offers nothing in return.