Lebanon seeks Israeli withdrawal in Rome talks, eyes expanded 'pilot zones'

Lebanon is pushing for greater Israeli withdrawals from southern Lebanon during the seventh round of US-sponsored indirect negotiations in Rome. The goal is to allow the Lebanese army to deploy and displaced residents to return, aligning with the "pilot zones" program established under a June 26 framework agreement.

Beirut also seeks an end to Israeli demolitions in occupied southern villages. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is overseeing the three-day "Rome 2" talks, with Army Commander Rodolphe Haykal directly involved with the Lebanese military delegation. Sources indicate the delegation began by emphasizing the need for Israel to cease its violations and consolidate the ceasefire.

The discussions are focusing on assessing the first pilot zone implemented in Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh and the technicalities of expanding these zones. The US mediator has shown understanding of Lebanon's demands, though Israel has not yet responded. The talks are expected to conclude with an agreement to establish a new pilot zone, with Bint Jbeil and Khiam proposed due to their national significance and the displacement of their residents.

Notably, Israel has reportedly agreed to discuss the land border with Lebanon for the first time, with a legal expert on the Lebanese delegation underscoring this development. The previous round in Rome resulted in an agreement for the first pilot zone. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani urged both sides to continue constructively to implement the framework agreement.

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continue in a constructive spirit, identifying shared solutions that will allow for the full implementation of the framework agreement