🌍 U.S.-ISRAEL-LEBANON DIPLOMATIC PROCESS: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Israel and Lebanon are "very close" to reaching a commitment of intent that could begin a broader diplomatic process. He emphasized that, for the first time in roughly three decades, Washington is negotiating with Lebanon's sovereign government rather than Hezbollah, while the United States seeks to help Beirut extend state authority throughout the country.
Reports on the negotiations differed. Axios described the opening session as ending without meaningful progress amid disagreements over the scope and timing of a possible Israeli withdrawal. In contrast, Al-Hadath reported agreement in principle on military "pilot areas" in southern Lebanon and the drafting of an advanced bilateral understanding expected to be finalized in Washington.
Reuters reported discussions over a U.S.-backed proposal in which Israel would transfer portions of territory captured during the war to the Lebanese Army, whose units would be trained and vetted by the United States while Israel retains forces inside a border security buffer. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun reiterated that only Lebanon's sovereign government has the authority to negotiate on the country's behalf.
🛡️ ISRAEL'S SECURITY POSITION: Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Israel will not withdraw from southern Lebanon, adding that no such American demand currently exists. He said Israel will not repeat previous security arrangements that exposed Israeli forces to attacks from nearby civilian areas and stressed that Israeli positions will be maintained to prevent renewed terrorist activity.
Katz also reiterated that Israel will continue holding security zones in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza as part of its long-term security doctrine. Responding to Iranian threats, he warned that any Iranian attack connected to Lebanon—or for any other reason—would be met with an Israeli response "with full force."
🎯 OPERATIONS IN SOUTHERN LEBANON: The IDF announced the elimination of at least six Hezbollah operatives threatening Israeli forces inside the southern Lebanon security zone. Five were identified near Zawtar al-Sharqiya, while another armed operative was located near the Ali al-Taher Ridge. Israeli Air Force strikes, supported by ground fire, targeted both groups.
The military said operations continue around the Ali al-Taher Ridge, where Hezbollah maintains an underground tunnel network believed to house approximately 30 operatives. The IDF stated it will prevent Hezbollah fighters from emerging or reestablishing activity in the area.
Lebanese media also reported an Israeli drone strike on a motorcycle between Zotar and Mayfadoun, north of the Litani River, in which two people were reportedly killed.
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