BEIRUT: Attention is turning to the first phase of “pilot zones” in southern Lebanon, the first practical step in a mechanism being developed alongside US-sponsored negotiations between Lebanon and Israel.
The outcome is expected to determine whether the model can be expanded to other areas, as a seventh round of negotiations is due to be held in Rome in early August.
The choice of Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, Froun and Srifa as starting points appeared to reflect more than military considerations. It followed understandings reached before the meeting between US President Donald Trump and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun earlier this week and was intended to establish a model that could be expanded gradually.
The first phase will assess not only the military deployment but the broader implementation process, before any move to later stages.
Mneimneh: A confidence-building approach
