Israel-Lebanon talks on IDF withdrawal advance, but key details remain unsettled

Negotiations between Israel and Lebanon over an Israeli military withdrawal from southern Lebanon are moving forward in a positive atmosphere, according to a source involved in the talks at the Pentagon. The source said the sides are not agreed on everything, but are discussing possible pilot areas and specific terrain sectors in southern Lebanon. The timing of any pilot and the areas from which the IDF is expected to pull back have not yet been finalized.

The talks between Jerusalem and Beirut continued Wednesday evening in Washington. According to sources familiar with the discussions, the two sides were already at odds on Tuesday over the pilot zones and the pace of the withdrawal. Even so, the IDF is expected to leave some areas, but not all of southern Lebanon, as the maps being examined indicate where the first steps might begin.

Earlier this week, the United States agreed, as part of its discussions with Iran, to set up a mechanism for investigating ceasefire violations in Lebanon. That mechanism would include Iran and Qatar, but not Israel. People briefed on the matter said Israel could not realistically take part because Iran would be present, but the United States is expected to carry or at least reflect Israel’s message, while Iran will represent Hezbollah’s position.

The issue remains sensitive despite public denials in Israel. Earlier Wednesday, Defense Minister Israel Katz said, "Even if there is an American demand, we will not withdraw from southern Lebanon." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said this week, "We will remain in the security zone as long as necessary."