Lebanon and Israel still split over disarming Hezbollah at Rome talks
Summary
Lebanon and Israel are holding talks in Rome, brokered by the United States, to discuss Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon and security arrangements. The two sides remain divided over the issue of disarming Hezbollah, making further Israeli withdrawals unlikely at this time.Key Facts
- The talks are the second day of the second round in Rome and the seventh overall, following previous talks in Washington.
- Lebanon and Israel aim to maintain a fragile ceasefire and build on a framework agreement signed in June.
- Lebanon wants the Lebanese army to secure strategic areas like Ali Taher Hill and prevent Hezbollah’s weapons there.
- Israel demands disarmament of Hezbollah as part of the security arrangements but stepped back from linking this directly to border talks for the first time.
- The talks include discussions on appointing a third party, possibly Italy, to verify Israeli withdrawal and oversee Lebanese army control.
- Lebanon requests Israel stop demolitions and bombings in the south, including near Beaufort Castle.
- Hezbollah is not part of the talks, will pull back south of the Litani River but will not disarm in the north.
- Locals in southern Lebanon have mixed views, with some distrusting Hezbollah and Israel, while others hope for peace amid economic troubles.
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