Lebanon-Israel talks in Rome stall over dispute on withdrawal from southern Lebanon

Lebanon and Israel resumed talks in Rome on implementing a framework agreement, with Lebanon demanding immediate Israeli withdrawal from a designated buffer zone.

• Lebanese President Joseph Aoun instructed the delegation to demand the immediate withdrawal of Israeli forces from two designated areas before any further discussions.
• The start of talks was delayed by more than an hour after the Israeli delegation arrived late, sources briefed on the preparations said.
• The framework agreement signed on June 26 calls for the disarmament of armed groups, deployment of Lebanese troops in the south, and a gradual Israeli withdrawal.
• Israeli officials said the buffer zone, extending about 10 km into Lebanon, is necessary to protect northern Israeli communities from Hezbollah attacks.

Latest developments

• The first day of Lebanon-Israel talks in Rome has concluded, with both sides expressing willingness to advance the process.
• The US State Department described the atmosphere of the Rome talks as positive and productive, with negotiations set to resume on Wednesday.
• The talks in Rome represent the sixth round of direct negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, having moved from Washington.
• The Lebanese delegation is led by former ambassador Simon Karam, while Israel's delegation is headed by its ambassador to Washington, Yechiel Leiter.
• Italy offered to host the talks in April, and the Italian foreign ministry welcomed the new round in Rome.