Lebanon and Israel conclude talks in Rome over 'pilot zones'

Lebanon and Israel conclude talks in Rome over 'pilot zones' Lebanon and Israel concluded talks in Rome with agreements over the “pilot zones” project, according to a US official. The sixth-round of the talks, held under the US-brokered 26 June framework deal and taking place at the US Embassy in Rome. The pilot zones project refers to the withdrawal of Israeli forces from parts of southern Lebanon, and the deployment of the Lebanese army. A deal would also seek to disarm non-state armed groups, mainly referring to Hezbollah. “We agreed on the structure and guidelines for the pilot zone process, to be finalised and implemented in the coming days,” the official told Reuters. Israel has frequently violated a ceasefire agreed last month, carrying out deadly strikes. Hezbollah is not involved in the talks, strongly rejecting direct contact with Israel and disarmement.