US-mediated Israel-Lebanon negotiations will resume in Rome.
The US State Department has confirmed that the next round of US-mediated talks between Israel and Lebanon will take place in Rome from August 4 to 6.
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The announcement comes as Israel prepares to withdraw from two pilot zones in southern Lebanon under the framework agreement reached between the two sides.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani first announced the meeting last week. Later, a US State Department official confirmed the schedule and outlined the agenda for the negotiations.
According to the official, technical groups will discuss the full implementation of the framework agreement. In addition, they will examine plans to expand the pilot zone process, resolve remaining border disputes and work toward a comprehensive peace and security agreement.
Framework agreement guides negotiations
Israel and Lebanon reached the framework agreement after fighting erupted between Israel and Hezbollah on March 2 during the broader Middle East conflict.
The agreement calls for an end to hostilities in Lebanon, the disarmament of Hezbollah, the deployment of Lebanese troops in southern Lebanon and the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from two designated pilot zones.
The US official said the initial pilot zones will help both sides improve the implementation process before expanding it in phases.
Tensions persist despite diplomatic efforts
Meanwhile, Lebanon’s army accused Israel on Sunday of continuing military operations in the south. It said the ongoing actions have prevented the army from completing its planned deployment under the agreement.
Beirut has also reported intermittent Israeli airstrikes and artillery shelling in southern Lebanon despite the recent reduction in fighting.
