Lebanon Prepares for Sixth Israel Talks Amid Tensions and Calls for U.S. Pressure

The sixth round of negotiations between Israeli and Lebanese representatives is scheduled for Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. local time in Rome, according to the Lebanese channel Al-Jadeed. Lebanon’s government is actively engaging with the United States to expedite the implementation of a framework agreement aimed at initiating Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon. This move is intended to assert Lebanon’s independence from Iranian influence and demonstrate its commitment to direct negotiations and signing the Washington document.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced plans to request U.S. President Donald Trump to exert necessary pressure on Israel to comply with the framework agreement and Lebanese demands. Aoun emphasized leveraging the current U.S. administration’s desire for regional peace to strengthen Lebanon’s position. Concurrently, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri described the regional atmosphere as negative due to escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington.

Berri expressed cautious optimism about any approach that could end aggression and occupation but criticized the direct negotiations leading to the framework agreement for yielding no tangible benefits for Lebanon so far. He opposed the proposed pilot zones, warning they could prolong Israel’s withdrawal over two years and potentially embroil the Lebanese army in internal conflicts, which he said would serve Israeli interests. Berri also showed little enthusiasm for the upcoming Rome talks, suggesting they would continue a complicated process.

President Aoun stressed that Lebanon’s army and state institutions, not sectarian parties, are responsible for protecting the country. He highlighted the suffering of southern residents, who deserve security and stability instead of repeated destruction and loss. The Lebanese government’s push for U.S. involvement and direct talks with Israel reflects ongoing efforts to resolve long-standing disputes amid regional instability.