Lebanon, Israel weigh transfer of southern border zones in Washington talks

Lebanese and Israeli representatives are discussing a proposal in Washington that would place parts of the southern territory currently occupied by Israeli forces under the control of the Lebanese army, Reuters reports, citing officials on both sides.

According to the sources, the US-backed plan would require Lebanese soldiers to undergo American training and vetting before assuming responsibility for the areas in question.

The process is intended to ensure that the personnel involved have no ties to Hezbollah, the sources said.

Under the proposal, Israel would maintain its military presence in a buffer zone along the Lebanese border while the transfer of control is implemented.

By Jeyhun Aghazada