Israel advances in southern Lebanon amid ceasefire negotiations

Despite an active ceasefire, Israeli forces continue to advance through various axes in southern Lebanon. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have extended their range along the southwestern coast toward Al-Mansouri and have re-entered several towns, including Mays al-Jabal, Muhaybib, and Blida. In Hadata, Israeli convoys have taken control and conducted demolitions, despite the presence of Lebanese army checkpoints.

US Ambassador to Lebanon Michael Issa stated that progress is being made in defining “pilot areas” where the Lebanese army is expected to deploy to facilitate a gradual Israeli withdrawal. Issa noted that while strikes have continued, they have occurred primarily outside these designated zones. He emphasized that Washington has not yet reached an agreement with Israel to halt all attacks, noting that Israel links continued military action to Hezbollah’s failure to comply with the ceasefire and surrender its weapons.

Negotiations regarding the conflict continue in Rome, while the possibility of direct US talks with Hezbollah remains open, provided the group is willing to engage meaningfully.