As U.S. efforts accelerate to implement the framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel, Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon continue, threatening diplomatic efforts to stabilize the situation.
Lebanon’s Conditions
Sources told Al Arabiya and Al Hadath that Lebanon conditioned its participation in the Rome meetings on Israel’s withdrawal from two pilot areas. Beirut agreed to attend only if U.S. mediation continues. The American delegation in Beirut is reviewing operational plans for these areas, including specialized committees on security and border management, with the aim of transferring control directly to the Lebanese army.
The meetings are expected to evolve into technical and executive discussions, shaping political and security arrangements, joint working groups, and relationship management. However, sources stressed deep divisions remain between Lebanon and Israel over withdrawal terms.
U.S. Delegation in Beirut
An American military delegation arrived Saturday and began talks with Lebanese army leadership on mechanisms for Israel’s withdrawal from the first pilot area in the south. A Lebanese military source told AFP this prepares for Lebanese army deployment.
The source said the delegation’s mission is to translate the Washington framework agreement signed in late June into practical steps, starting with Israel’s first withdrawal. A U.S. official in Washington confirmed: “We are now in the implementation phase,” noting maps for additional pilot areas are being prepared. CENTCOM will coordinate with both countries, while international partners will be engaged to support Lebanon’s sovereignty.
Rome Talks and Disputes
Lebanon insists Israel withdraw from two pilot areas before attending the Rome negotiations scheduled for July 15–16. Israel, however, insists on maintaining a 10-kilometer security zone until Hezbollah disarms, a condition Hezbollah rejects, refusing direct negotiations with Israel.The Rome round is expected to precede Lebanese President Michel Aoun’s visit to Washington later in July at President Trump’s invitation.
Military Escalation
Meanwhile, Israeli forces continued airstrikes, artillery shelling, and demolitions in southern Lebanon. The National News Agency reported three strikes on Mansouri, a drone attack on Majdal Zoun, and demolitions in Houla. Additional strikes targeted Kfartabnit, Nabatieh al-Fawqa, Konin, and Beit Yahoun.
On June 26, Lebanon and Israel reached a U.S.-brokered security agreement under which Israel would hand over two areas to the Lebanese army. Israel has established a 10-kilometer-deep security zone inside Lebanon, claiming it is necessary to protect northern settlements from Hezbollah attacks. Prime Minister Netanyahu visited occupied Lebanese territory, telling soldiers Israel would not withdraw as long as Hezbollah remains a threat.
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