LATEST: In Rome, Israel says it is ready to move forward with its withdrawal from southern Lebanon
Global Update:
The following report highlights an important international development currently attracting worldwide attention.
In Rome, the Israeli and Lebanese delegations resumed their discussions on Tuesday, under the supervision of the United States. The discussions relate in particular to the withdrawal of Israeli forces from two “pilot zones” in southern Lebanon. An official from the American State Department described the discussions as “fruitful”, conducted “in a positive atmosphere”. According to him, “both parties are eager to move forward.” Negotiations are due to continue on Wednesday.Beirut calls for withdrawal of Israeli forcesIsraeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar confirmed that Israel was ready to “move forward” in the implementation of the two pilot zones. “I hope and I am confident that this series of discussions in Rome will contribute to this,” he declared in Jerusalem. Beirut is demanding “the immediate start of the withdrawal of Israeli forces from two pilot areas before any further discussions.” A Lebanese diplomatic source indicates that “the Lebanese army is ready to gradually take control of the localities from which the Israeli army withdraws”. In return, Israel demands that Hezbollah remain absent from the evacuated areas. The shadow of Hezbollah hangs over the negotiations These talks are part of the framework agreement concluded on June 26 in Washington with a view to a “lasting peace”. Hezbollah, supported by Iran, rejects this text. Despite the fragile ceasefire in the conflict that broke out in early March, Israel continues limited strikes and destruction in southern Lebanon, according to official Lebanese media. Our file on the Middle EastKarim Bitar, professor at Sciences Po Paris, believes that “the chances of a breakthrough in Rome are quite limited.” He nevertheless considers that Iran “will think twice before asking Hezbollah to launch new strikes against Israel”, according to him, Tehran wishing to keep the movement as an instrument of long-term deterrence.
What Happens Next:
Analysts believe this development may influence future diplomatic, political, or economic discussions internationally.
Political and economic analysts are paying close attention to the potential consequences of these events.
Our editorial team will continue tracking this story as new reports become available.
Source: This article was originally published by 20Minutes – Actu Monde and adapted for our international English-speaking audience.
Read the original article here.