Lebanon has conditioned its participation in upcoming direct negotiations with Israel in Rome on Israeli troop withdrawal from two specific areas in southern Lebanon. These talks, mediated by the U.S., aim to de-escalate tensions. Amidst these diplomatic efforts, President Donald Trump expressed optimism regarding an Israeli withdrawal, stating he had discussed the matter with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and believed Israel intended to leave. Separately, Trump suggested that Syria might play a role in addressing Hezbollah's influence in Lebanon, indicating he had proposed this to Israel.