Israel and Lebanon negotiate US‑backed experimental zones in southern Lebanon

The United States is hosting a fifth round of direct talks between Israel and Lebanon in Washington, covering political and security tracks. The discussions focus on establishing "experimental zones" in southern Lebanon, where the Lebanese army would be required to demonstrate the ability to prevent Hezbollah’s return in exchange for a limited, Israeli‑supervised withdrawal from specific areas.

Israeli forces have reported violations of the cease‑fire, claiming they fired on individuals they deemed a security threat near the Ali Al‑Taher heights, while Hezbollah says Israeli fire hit civilians clearing rubble in the town of al‑Deir, killing two and wounding others. Both sides accuse each other of breaching the cease‑fire as the negotiations continue.

U.S. officials, including State Department officials and senior defense officials, are coordinating a joint monitoring mechanism to track cease‑fire compliance. Qatar’s leadership has been involved in establishing a coordination cell to stabilize the cease‑fire, and France along with other European partners is discussing a possible multinational security force to replace the UNIFIL mission.

Israeli internal security circles show disagreement over the timing and conditions of any withdrawal, while Lebanese officials, including President Joseph Aoun, have voiced support for the experimental‑zone concept and the coordination cell. The outcome of the talks could reshape the security architecture along the Israel‑Lebanon border.