Israel and Lebanon are discussing a US-mediated land transfer project

Israel and Lebanon are currently holding US-backed discussions on a pilot project involving the withdrawal of Israeli forces from certain areas of southern Lebanon and their transfer to the control of the Lebanese army.

According to officials from both countries, this proposal is being considered as part of the Israeli-Lebanese talks being held in Washington. The aim is to reduce tensions along the border after several months of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

Israeli forces had seized control of large swathes of southern Lebanon during the war that erupted after Hezbollah opened a front in support of Iran. Since the ceasefire took effect last Sunday, the situation has remained relatively calm, marking the longest period of respite since the fighting began.

The plan currently under consideration envisions certain areas being gradually handed over to the Lebanese army. According to Israeli officials, the Lebanese units deployed in these sectors would be selected, trained, and monitored with US support to ensure they are not linked to Hezbollah or other armed groups.

Israel, however, wants to maintain a military presence in a buffer zone near the border. The Israeli government asserts that this measure is necessary to protect northern communities from potential future attacks.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Israel would not completely withdraw from southern Lebanon, even under American pressure. For his part, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed that Israeli troops would remain there "as long as necessary" to ensure the country's security.

Hezbollah has rejected the ongoing talks between Beirut and Israel, denouncing a plan which it says does not meet Lebanon's demands for the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces.

Despite these differences, negotiations are continuing and could constitute a first step toward a lasting stabilization of the Israeli-Lebanese border. The United States hopes that this pilot mechanism will strengthen the role of the Lebanese army in the south of the country and reduce the risk of a resumption of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.