Lebanon and the Zionist entity are engaged in discussions over a U.S.-sponsored proposal to transfer control of certain areas in southern Lebanon currently occupied by Zionist forces to the Lebanese army, according to officials from both sides. The talks, taking place in Washington, aim to establish a pilot scheme for the phased handover of territory seized during recent hostilities.

The conflict, which erupted when Hezbollah launched attacks against the Zionist entity in a demonstration of support for Iran, followed coordinated strikes on Iran by the United States and the Zionist entity. While a ceasefire has largely held since Sunday—the longest pause in fighting to date—Zionist forces remain deployed deep inside southern Lebanon. The Zionist military presence is justified by officials as necessary to protect northern territories from potential Hezbollah attacks.

Zionist Defense Minister Yoav Katz stated on Wednesday that the Zionist entity would not withdraw from southern Lebanon even if urged by the United States. Similarly, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed the intention to maintain forces in Lebanon for as long as deemed necessary.

According to Zionist officials involved in the negotiations, the Lebanese troops designated to assume control in the proposed handover areas would receive U.S. training and undergo vetting to ensure they have no affiliations with Hezbollah. The Zionist entity would continue to hold a military presence in a buffer zone along the border to maintain security.

A senior Lebanese security official confirmed that discussions were ongoing in Washington and indicated that detailed military-to-military talks concerning the pilot zones were scheduled to take place on Wednesday. The talks continue despite being overshadowed by Iran’s recent diplomatic engagement with the United States, which positions Lebanon as a focal point.

The dialogue represents a cautious step toward easing the military tensions in southern Lebanon, although key players on both sides emphasize the current necessity of maintaining forces amid the volatile regional situation.