US Ambassador to Lebanon urges caution as Rome talks continue

<p> <br /> DUBAI: United States Ambassador to Lebanon, Michel Issa, said on Monday talks in Rome remained ongoing, but expressed hope that both sides could reach a successful outcome.<br /> While stressing the need for careful implementation, Issa said significant technical work remained to ensure civilian safety on the ground. <br /> He warned that moving too quickly could risk undermining the process.<br /> And he said there was a difference between drafting an agreement and implementing it responsibly, adding that a clear and workable process must be agreed before proceeding with pilot zones.</p> <p> The US State Department confirmed last week that the next round of talks between Israel and Lebanon will be held in Rome on August 4 through 6, as Israel prepares to withdraw from two “pilot zones” in southern Lebanon.<br /> Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani first announced the next round of US-mediated talks last week, with a State Department official detailing the talks to AFP on the condition of anonymity.<br /> “In Rome, technical groups will focus on advancing the full implementation of the framework agreement,” the official told AFP, adding that the planned discussion “includes expanding the pilot zone process, resolving all outstanding border issues, and working on a comprehensive peace and security agreement.”<br /> The Israel-Lebanon framework deal emerged after war broke out between Israel and Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah on March 2, against the backdrop of the wider Middle East war.</p>