Talks with Israel unlikely to take place next week, says Lebanese official source
The next round of US-brokered talks between Lebanon and Israel will not take place next week, a Lebanese source close to the negotiations told The National on Friday – contrary to media reports that negotiations would be held on September 14 or 15. “First of all, the Americans would inform us, not the Israelis. Second, we did not agree to any appointment because the Americans did not inform us of…
Lebanese officials have ruled out the possibility of US-brokered talks between Lebanon and Israel next week, according to a source close to the negotiations. This contradicts media reports suggesting that discussions would take place on September 14 or 15. The source revealed that the United States informs Lebanon about any appointments, rather than the Israeli side.
The negotiations had already been stalled following Israeli forces' recent bombing of the Ali Al Taher ridge in southern Lebanon, which involved over 1,000 tonnes of explosives. The timing does not suit Lebanon as the President needs to prepare for a Paris conference. Additionally, France is set to host a meeting in support of the Lebanese army, further straining the already halted negotiation process.
The current framework has resulted in the establishment of two "pilot zones" for Israel's withdrawal, but progress has been limited. The talks have not halted Israeli military advances in southern Lebanon, nor have they resolved issues regarding a verification committee to ensure the deal's adherence. Concerns over Israel's unchecked military presence in southern Lebanon persist, with Defence Minister Israel Katz stating that the country is prepared to expand its campaign by targeting Hezbollah at additional locations after demolishing tunnels in the region.
Written by urgent.news from The National UAE's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
