Israel and Lebanon are discussing a US-backed proposal that could see Israeli forces transfer parts of southern Lebanese territory to the Lebanese army. The talks aim to strengthen border stability following months of conflict with Hezbollah. Any agreement could influence regional security and affect communities on both sides of the border.
Officials from both countries are participating in negotiations in Washington. According to Israeli officials, the proposal would involve Lebanese troops receiving US training and vetting before deployment. Israel would reportedly retain a military presence in a buffer zone along the border as part of the arrangement.
The proposal is being considered as a pilot project within a broader diplomatic process. Israeli officials said the vetting measures are intended to ensure deployed troops have no links to Hezbollah. However, Hezbollah has rejected the diplomatic track, which has been overshadowed by wider negotiations involving Iran and the United States.
A senior Lebanese security official confirmed that discussions remain ongoing. Military representatives from both sides are expected to focus on operational details, including proposed pilot zones and a possible withdrawal timeline. Lebanese officials said no final framework is expected before talks conclude on Thursday.
The negotiations follow a ceasefire that has largely held since Sunday after fighting between Israel and Hezbollah. Israeli forces remain deployed in parts of southern Lebanon, citing security concerns. The discussions also align with provisions in the recent US-Iran interim agreement, which calls for an end to military operations and support for Lebanon’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.