Israel-Lebanon Talks Resume in Rome, Ceasefire Future Remains Uncertain

Diplomatic meetings between Israel and Lebanon have resumed in the Italian capital, as uncertainty over the ceasefire’s sustainability continues to grow, against a backdrop of renewed tensions in U.S.-Iran relations.

Israeli forces must withdraw from southern Lebanon, according to the Lebanese government’s demand, while the other side insists it will continue to control a so-called “buffer” zone, which it views as essential for the defense of its northern communities.

International press reports indicate that Iranian representatives have informed Hezbollah that they will not support a final peaceful solution unless Israel relinquishes that territory.

Meanwhile, a Lebanese government source has indicated that Beirut will put forward a proposal with so-called “pilot zones,” which envisages a phased disarmament of Hezbollah, the withdrawal of Israeli troops, and the deployment of the Lebanese army in the evacuated territories.

However, experts view the ceasefire as extremely fragile due to recent regional dynamics. According to military analyst Michael Clarke, the upcoming electoral process in Israel could shape Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision-making, leading him to avoid further escalation.

“Additional conflicts in Lebanon would not yield significant benefits. For now, Netanyahu appears more preoccupied with the domestic political fallout than with the military clash itself,” Clarke stressed.