U.S. State Department: Any Permanent Israeli Military Presence in Southern Lebanon Contradicts Framework Agreement

The U.S. State Department told MTV that Washington considers any permanent Israeli military presence in southern Lebanon inconsistent with the agreed framework, while reaffirming its full support for Lebanon's sovereignty.

Meanwhile, a diplomatic source reported that American and Arab pressure is pushing for Qaa to become a model area, with private properties to be searched through judicial warrants or based on intelligence information or witnessed crimes.

At this time, U.S. sources clarified that the discussion is no longer limited to experimental zones but has expanded to include border areas, restrictions on the Blue Line, and outstanding issues between Lebanon and Israel.