Israel, Lebanon begin US-brokered talks in Rome

Israeli and Lebanese delegations began U.S.-mediated talks in Rome on Tuesday to advance a framework agreement reached on June 26 in Washington. The discussions, held at the U.S. Embassy and continuing through Wednesday, aim to implement a deal to end months of fighting in the border area with Hezbollah. Key aspects of the agreement include a potential Israeli withdrawal from Southern Lebanon and the deployment of Lebanese forces, contingent on the disarmament of Hezbollah.

"What the agreement with Lebanon does is completely remove Iran from the paradigm,"

said Israeli Ambassador Yechiel Leiter, emphasizing that Israel can withdraw "the moment that Hezbollah is dismantled." The agreement also identifies two "pilot zones" where Israeli troops would be replaced by the Lebanese Armed Forces, with U.S. Central Command coordinating their launch.