BEIRUT: The seventh round of Lebanese-Israeli talks in Rome concluded after three days without agreement on a new pilot zone, while discussions continued over a verification mechanism and other issues. Further rounds are expected as tensions persist on the ground in South Lebanon.

Lebanese lawmakers differed over the point of continuing the dialogue, though most believe the outcome of their outcome cannot be judged based on a single round.

Supporters argued that successive meetings can produce incremental gains and pave the way for more advanced stages of talks despite setbacks and violations on the ground.

Critics said that the lack of tangible results risks turning the effort into “open-ended negotiations” that Israel benefits from.

Laying the groundwork for implementation