US Intervenes to Prevent Escalation in Lebanon and Preserve Israel-Lebanon Talks in Rome

The Lebanese newspaper Nidaa Al-Watan reports that the United States urgently intervened to restrain escalating tensions in Lebanon following the deaths of two Israeli reservists, successfully limiting Israel's military response and preventing the collapse of ongoing negotiations. This decisive American involvement preserved the third day of peace talks between Israel and Lebanon held in Rome, which are set to resume today.

A Lebanese official told the newspaper that Lebanon sought to de-escalate tensions in southern Lebanon through diplomatic and security contacts. However, Hezbollah's lack of cooperation and Israel's insistence on neutralizing all threats brought the situation close to escalation. Lebanon is now taking all necessary steps to halt the escalation and return to negotiations, responding to American pressure to resolve issues peacefully while acknowledging Lebanon's demands.

During yesterday's political meeting between the Israeli and Lebanese delegations, discussions centered on selecting a third party to verify the implementation of pilot zones, a core dispute between the sides. Israel insists on conducting the verification itself, which Lebanon rejects, proposing the United States instead. However, Washington declined Lebanon's suggestion, expressing distrust of France, which had offered to take on the role, due to perceived French cooperation with Hezbollah and Iran. Spain was also considered but opposed by Israel due to its recent hostile stance. Italy is emerging as a likely candidate given its proximity to Lebanon, Israel, and the US, and because Rome is hosting the talks.

According to Kan 11, the Israel-Lebanon negotiations are scheduled to continue today at 9 a.m. in Rome, marking the third day of discussions aimed at resolving tensions and advancing peace efforts.