US Coordinates Israeli Withdrawal, Lebanon Talks in Rome

Diplomatic efforts to implement a new security framework between Israel and Lebanon are advancing, with the United States coordinating the imminent launch of a pilot withdrawal zone and high-level talks scheduled in Rome next week. The developments follow a U.S.-brokered framework agreement reached on June 26 aimed at ending cross-border hostilities and facilitating an Israeli withdrawal from parts of southern Lebanon.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is scheduled to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on July 21, his first official visit to Washington since taking office. Aoun stated the visit aims to advance a lasting solution to the conflict and halt Israeli military operations. The diplomatic push comes as technical teams from Israel and Lebanon prepare for a sixth round of negotiations in Rome on July 15 and 16.

The core of the June framework involves Israel gradually withdrawing its forces from designated areas in southern Lebanon, where they have been engaged in a military campaign against the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement. In a key provision, the Lebanese Army is to assume full control of two initial "pilot zones" upon confirmation of successful...