Bilateral talks between Israel and Lebanon originally scheduled for next week in Rome have been officially postponed until October, US officials confirmed.
The postponement stems from logistical overlaps involving upcoming Jewish holidays, an international donor conference in Paris, and preparations for the United Nations General Assembly. Despite the delay in direct talks, ambassadors from both nations are scheduled to meet at the US State Department in Washington next week to discuss implementation details of the June framework agreement and monitor ongoing border developments.
The negotiation pause comes amid renewed military activity in Southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces have conducted fresh strikes against Hezbollah positions. In response to the escalations, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun conducted a surprise visit to Nabatieh alongside Army Commander General Rodolphe Haykal, reassuring local residents that securing an Israeli troop withdrawal, restoring essential services, and facilitating the return of displaced citizens remain non-negotiable national priorities.
