Lebanese President Joseph Aoun Says He Is Optimistic After Talks With Israel

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed optimism following talks with Israel, with sources describing the discussions as having taken place in a "positive atmosphere." The United States confirmed an agreement on implementing "pilot zones" between Israel and Lebanon, involving the gradual withdrawal of the IDF from certain areas to be taken over by the Lebanese army under American supervision. Lebanon is committed to honoring its negotiation commitments, with President Aoun stating that diplomacy is the only option to safeguard sovereignty and prevent military escalation. Israel will retain strategic positions in southern Lebanon, particularly in the Ali Taher ridge sector, due to an active Hezbollah complex. Hezbollah, however, continues to reject disarmament, insisting "without Hezbollah, nothing will happen."