Israel Opposes French, British Role in Lebanon Border Force

Israel and Lebanon are set to hold another round of negotiations in Rome on Tuesday and Wednesday to establish a force that will verify the removal of Hezbollah from designated "pilot areas." Israel has expressed opposition to the involvement of France and the United Kingdom in this security force. Meanwhile, the United States is advocating for an expansion of the withdrawal zones to be transferred to the Lebanese army.

A recent internal poll in Lebanon indicates that over 80% of the population supports the ongoing negotiations with Israel. This public backing comes as former U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon, David Hale, stated in an interview that Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is determined to disarm Hezbollah and curb Iranian influence in the country.

Hale described Aoun, a professional soldier, as committed to confronting militias that challenge state authority. He believes Aoun sees the current situation, partly due to Israeli military actions, as an opportunity to end attempts to undermine the army and state. "He deeply believes the country's stability depends on his success in ridding it of Iran's presence and influence and ending Hezbollah as an independent militia," Hale added.

In parallel, the Israeli military is preparing to destroy underground infrastructure in the Ali Tahar ridge.