The United States is preparing to host the fifth round of Israeli-Lebanese talks in Washington on the 23rd, with the main focus on a proposal to create "experimental" weapons-free zones in southern Lebanon. Under the plan, Israel, Hezbollah and other armed forces would pull back gradually, and the Lebanese army would take over security control in those areas first, with the possibility of expanding the model elsewhere later.
According to a report in the Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, a Lebanese military source said the army does not oppose the idea in principle, but wants clear answers about the geographic and legal boundaries of the pilot zones and how they would be run. The source said the army delegation will ask the Americans for "clear clarifications" about the term "experimental zones" and the mechanism for implementing them.
The Lebanese army is also rejecting any Israeli role in its movements or security duties. The talks are expected to confront the sensitive question of Israel's continued presence inside Lebanese territory, especially after Israeli statements that it will not give up a foothold in southern Lebanon despite the ceasefire commitment. Lebanese officers say their top priority is a comprehensive ceasefire, not limited arrangements that apply only to selected areas.
On the ground, Lebanese media reported an unusual calm across southern Lebanon from 6 p.m. on Saturday, with no attacks or even artillery fire. Reporter Ramiz al-Qadi of Al Araby said the region was in a state of complete quiet, which he described as "tense calm" until the situation stabilizes. The lull was also reported in recent flashpoint areas including the Ali al-Taher ridge, the village of Tebnine and the city of Nabatieh, while residents were seen returning from Beirut via the al-Qasimiya crossing.
