Aoun: Lebanon-Israel talks separate from US-Iran negotiations

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said negotiations with Israel in Washington are continuing on a separate track from last week’s talks in Switzerland between the United States and Iran, during a meeting with a British parliamentary delegation, the presidency said. “Work is underway to consolidate the ceasefire in southern Lebanon, to be followed by the withdrawal of Israeli forces, the deployment of the Lebanese army, the return of residents, the release of prisoners and the start of reconstruction,” Aoun said. “The designation of ‘pilot zones’ remains under discussion pending Israeli approval.”

Negotiation framework

The latest round of Lebanon-Israel talks began Tuesday in Washington, following four previous rounds that began in April. The talks aim to reach an agreement between the two sides. Aoun also told Dutch foreign and migration ministers that “Lebanon has begun to regain its presence and decision-making and insists on negotiating by itself and for itself.” The US State Department announced the new round of direct Lebanese-Israeli negotiations would take place June 23-25.

Context of the US-Iran deal

The talks come after the US-Iran memorandum of understanding entered into force on June 18, which includes a provision committing parties to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Israeli attacks in Lebanon have killed more than 4,100 people and injured over 12,000 since March 2. Israel continues to occupy areas in southern Lebanon.