US-Brokered Talks Continue Over Israeli Withdrawal From Southern Lebanon

Lebanon and Israel resumed direct negotiations in Rome, a meeting brokered by the United States after earlier talks in Washington that produced a framework agreement. The framework calls for the disarmament of Hezbollah and a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, aiming to reduce tensions along the 200‑kilometre border.

The new round of talks follows the earlier Washington negotiations, where both sides agreed to the same disarmament and withdrawal plan. Hezbollah’s chief, however, rejected the Rome discussions, labeling them a humiliation for Lebanon and refusing to participate. The U.S. has continued to mediate, urging both parties to adhere to the agreed framework and to move forward with implementation steps.

The Rome talks represent a renewed attempt to solidify the framework’s provisions, though the lack of Hezbollah’s engagement remains a significant obstacle. If the parties can maintain momentum, the agreement could pave the way for a more stable security situation in the region.