US Reveals Main Sticking Point in Israel-Lebanon Talks
The US has revealed the main problem in Israel-Lebanon negotiations: the sides have not agreed on the composition of an international mechanism to verify Hezbollah's disarmament and the actions of the Lebanese army. American and Israeli officials denied reports of an agreement on four countries. Talks continue, with the next round in Rome in early September.
The US has revealed the main problem in Israel-Lebanon negotiations: the sides have not agreed on the composition of an international mechanism that would verify Hezbollah's disarmament and the actions of the Lebanese army. Senior American and Israeli officials denied Reuters reports that four countries—Britain, Italy, Switzerland, and Indonesia—had already been agreed upon to send troops to Lebanon. An Israeli source told Walla that the information is false, and an American official confirmed that talks are ongoing. The composition of the body that will verify Lebanese army operations remains a key sticking point. Earlier in Rome, the sides agreed on details of pilot areas and general definitions of the terms 'verification' and 'clearing territory.' The US reiterated its opposition to extending UNIFIL's mandate. Talks will resume in Rome in early September, with consultations continuing in Beirut, Jerusalem, and Washington. An American official warned that Hezbollah is trying to derail the process, and the sides face internal political pressure. Despite the difficulties, Washington is satisfied with the direction of the talks.