Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a ceasefire following negotiations mediated by the United States, in a move aimed at ending months of cross border tensions and creating momentum for a broader peace process.
The agreement requires Hezbollah to halt attacks against Israel and withdraw its fighters from areas south of the Litani River.
Under the arrangement, the Lebanese Armed Forces will assume responsibility for security in designated zones of southern Lebanon, becoming the sole security presence in those areas.
The breakthrough followed two days of talks in Washington involving representatives of the United States, Israel and Lebanon.
Officials from the three countries said discussions would continue in the coming weeks to address unresolved issues and work toward a wider peace and security agreement.
Despite the announcement, uncertainty remains over the long term success of the ceasefire.
Hezbollah did not directly participate in the negotiations, and reports of continued violence in parts of southern Lebanon have raised concerns about the fragile security situation.
U.S. officials described the deal as an important step toward de escalation and a potential foundation for greater stability across the region.
Both Israel and Lebanon also reaffirmed that future relations between the two countries should be shaped through continued dialogue and negotiations between their governments.
Comments
Add a comment