Israel and Lebanon have advanced in discussions in Rome towards initiating a pilot project that involves transferring control of parts of southern Lebanon from Israeli forces to the Lebanese army. The recent talks marked progress in establishing a mechanism for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the initial two “pilot zones” in southern Lebanon. Negotiations are set to continue following the conclusion of the sixth round of US-mediated talks in Rome.
The talks centered on implementing a framework agreement reached in Washington on June 26. Key points of discussion included the sequence and terms for the withdrawal of Israeli forces, the deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), the disarmament of Hezbollah, and ensuring effective Lebanese state control over the relevant areas. Sources close to the negotiations highlighted that Israel is likely to proceed with the withdrawal from the first two pilot zones, considering these areas pose no immediate security threat.
The pilot project aims to assess the Lebanese army’s capacity to assume control of the regions, dismantle military infrastructure, and prevent Hezbollah from regaining a foothold before expanding the mechanism to other parts of southern Lebanon. Both countries acknowledge that the process will require time, with Lebanon striving to restore state sovereignty in the south while averting internal turmoil, and Israel emphasizing the need for verifiable security assurances to prevent Hezbollah’s resurgence in vacated areas. Israel’s full withdrawal hinges on the Lebanese army’s ability to establish enduring control and advance Hezbollah’s disarmament.
The recent talks, held at the US Embassy in Rome, followed a prior meeting in Washington aimed at progressing a ceasefire framework. Parties have agreed to convene for another round of talks, with the schedule yet to be determined. Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani emphasized Italy’s role in supporting peace and stability efforts in the Middle East.
