A Lebanese official told Al Jazeera that Beirut has reservations about participating in the sixth round of proposed negotiations in Rome, demanding that Israel first withdraw from the two pilot zones in southern Lebanon. The official said the framework agreement requires Israel to take concrete steps, which it has not yet done.
A Lebanese official has cast doubt on the next round of talks with Israel, telling Al Jazeera that Beirut has reservations about participating in the proposed sixth round in Rome unless Israel first withdraws from the two pilot zones. The official cited the framework agreement, which he said requires Israel to take concrete steps — steps that have not yet been carried out. The negotiations, mediated by the United States, have been deadlocked over the definition and implementation of the pilot zones, which are small areas near the border where Israel is to withdraw under a security arrangement. The Zioneer has previously reported on the dispute, including Lebanon's earlier refusal to move the talks from Washington to Rome, and the rejection of multiple Israeli proposals for the pilot zones. It remains unclear whether this statement reflects the official position of the entire Lebanese delegation or whether the talks can proceed without resolving the withdrawal issue.
- StrongLebanon talks: Israel insists on 'pilot zones' beyond the Yellow Line, Beirut refuses
- DevelopingReport: Gradual Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon to begin with Nabatieh test area
- DevelopingLebanon demands Israel withdraw from points near border; Israel refuses to leave anti-tank ditch line
- DevelopingLebanon rejects proposal to move talks with Israel to Rome, insists on Washington venue
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