Israel-Lebanon Talks Advance to Implementation Phase of US-Backed Security Plan

The negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, held under US auspices in Rome, have progressed to the practical implementation stage of the agreed framework, according to a US official cited by Reuters. The discussions, conducted behind closed doors, aim to enable professional teams from both countries to advance the operational application of the understandings reached.

The first pilot area under the plan is expected to commence within days, with additional pilot zones currently being mapped and planned. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) is coordinating the ongoing steps with both Israel and Lebanon to ensure smooth progress.

Furthermore, Washington plans to engage international partners soon to assist the Lebanese government in effectively restoring its sovereignty in the areas where the framework will be implemented, with the goal of extending this sovereignty throughout Lebanon over time. The US-backed plan seeks to facilitate the deployment of the Lebanese army in these territories, reduce Hezbollah's presence, and gradually move toward a broader security arrangement between the two countries.