AP: Israel-Lebanon talks may resume in Rome after ceasefire flare-up

Negotiations between Israeli and Lebanese delegations in Rome could resume as early as Thursday despite a fresh escalation along the border, the Associated Press (AP) reported, citing sources at the US State Department.

According to one source, the discussions held so far have been "extremely productive", raising hopes that the talks can continue after their unexpected suspension.

The negotiations were halted ahead of schedule following what officials described as "developments on the ground". The interruption came after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) accused Hezbollah of violating the ceasefire by attacking Israeli troops on Wednesday.

The Israeli military said two soldiers were killed and four others wounded in southern Lebanon during the incident. In response, the IDF launched strikes against Hezbollah positions in Lebanon, marking the latest escalation despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Israel and Lebanon signed a US-brokered framework agreement on 26 June after five rounds of negotiations in Washington. Under the accord, the Lebanese Armed Forces are expected to gradually re-establish effective sovereign control over the country's entire territory, while "pilot zones" are to be created to facilitate the phased withdrawal of Israeli troops.

By Aghakazim Guliyev