Rome: The next round of US-led talks between Israel and Lebanon is scheduled to take place in Rome next week, aiming to build on the recent progress toward implementing a security framework agreement, as reported by US media on Monday. The discussions come on the heels of the successful launch of the first pilot zone in southern Lebanon and a productive meeting between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and US President Donald Trump.

According to Anadolu Agency, technical working groups will convene in Rome from August 4-6 to focus on advancing the full implementation of last month's framework agreement. The agenda is set to include expanding the pilot zone initiative, resolving outstanding border disputes, and working toward a comprehensive peace and security agreement between Israel and Lebanon.

The first pilot zone is being viewed as an opportunity to make tangible progress on the ground by restoring Lebanese state authority through the verifiable disarmament of terrorist organizations. This effort is crucial for building the confidence necessary for subsequent steps. The lessons learned from the initial pilot zone are expected to refine the implementation process before it is expanded in phases.

The official emphasized that the trilateral framework is the only path to lasting peace, stating that fully implementing it is in the clear interest of both countries. The Trump administration remains committed to the success of this framework. On June 26, Lebanon and Israel signed a framework agreement for a phased Israeli withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territories. However, it does not include a timetable, linking the process to the Lebanese army taking full security responsibility in areas vacated by Israeli forces and the disarmament of armed groups, including Hezbollah.

According to official Lebanese figures, Israeli attacks in Lebanon since March 2 have resulted in 4,328 deaths and 12,232 injuries. Israel continues to occupy parts of southern Lebanon, some held for decades and others seized during the war between October 2023 and November 2024.