Seventh Round of US-Brokered Israel-Lebanon Talks Begins in Rome

Lebanese and Israeli delegations began a three-day, seventh round of US-sponsored negotiations in Rome, focused on implementing the June 26 framework agreement. Talks centered on expanding the pilot-zone process in southern Lebanon — starting with Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, Srifa and Froun — under which the Lebanese Armed Forces verify Hezbollah's disarmament as Israel withdraws. The US ambassador warned that rushing the process risked the civilians it was meant to protect.