Rome Becomes the Center of Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire Negotiations

Lebanese and Israeli negotiators have convened in Rome for the seventh round of ceasefire talks, as both sides seek to advance an agreement aimed at reducing tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border. The negotiations follow up on a framework reached in June, under which Israel would gradually withdraw from parts of southern Lebanon, while the Lebanese Armed Forces would assume control of the area and work to disarm Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group that operates in southern Lebanon. The proposed plan is expected to begin with pilot zones, where Israeli forces would pull back and Lebanese troops would take over security responsibilities before any broader implementation.