Seventh round of Lebanon–Israel talks opens in Rome
US-mediated meetings from today until August 6 aim to implement the June framework and prepare a broader peace and security deal.
Today in Rome the seventh round of negotiations between Lebanon and Israel begins under the mediation of the United States. The talks aim to put into practice the framework agreement the parties reached in June.
The agenda centers on a phased Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, the deployment of the Lebanese army into areas vacated by Israeli forces, and the settlement of the remaining border issues between the two countries.
Positions and obstacles
The Lebanese government says it is working toward an arrangement that would lead to a complete Israeli withdrawal, while Washington has stressed that any pullback must proceed gradually to avoid creating new security risks.
Hezbollah has voiced strong opposition to both the framework and direct talks with Israel and has rejected any plan to disarm. Its stance remains a major obstacle to implementing an agreement on the ground.
Although the intensity of clashes has decreased since June, occasional Israeli strikes continue in southern Lebanon, keeping the security situation volatile. Negotiators in Rome have until August 6 to try to set the foundation for a broader peace and security deal, but significant hurdles remain.
Photo: press material from the event
