Paris, Rome to Host Aid Talks; Hochtsein Delays Beirut Visit

Paris is gearing up to host a conference aimed at supporting the Lebanese Army towards the end of February, with a subsequent conference slated for early March in Rome with the same goal, according to a report by al-Akhbar newspaper.

The initiative is a continuation of France’s proposal to bolster the Lebanese Army’s capabilities in southern Lebanon, including the installation of surveillance towers and providing training for its soldiers.

In related news, diplomatic sources revealed to al-Liwaa newspaper that U.S. mediator Amos Hochstein has indicated he will not be visiting Lebanon anytime soon.

A notable parliamentary source disclosed to Asharq al-Awsat newspaper that Hochstein’s absence in Beirut is due to a lack of consensus with Israel on a strategy to halt hostilities and implement U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701.

Despite this, Hochstein is reportedly maintaining daily communications with both Beirut and Tel Aviv to manage the situation in southern Lebanon and avert any escalation that could broaden the conflict.

“Lebanon is committed to the U.S. mediation effort,” the source stated.

The ongoing exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and Israel since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war on October 7 have resulted in significant casualties and displacement. On the Lebanese side, the conflict has led to the death of at least 268 individuals, primarily Hezbollah fighters, along with 40 civilians. Meanwhile, Israel has reported the deaths of 10 soldiers and six civilians. The conflict has also forced tens of thousands from their homes on both sides of the border, with Israel repeatedly signaling its readiness to take action against Hezbollah to ensure the safety and return of its residents, amid continuing indirect negotiations for a political resolution.