Lebanon and Israel agreed on a conditional ceasefire following US-led talks in Washington. The agreement aims to reduce tensions after months of cross-border hostilities.
According to a joint statement, the ceasefire depends on a complete halt of attacks by Hezbollah. The agreement also requires Hezbollah operatives to leave southern Lebanon. Officials said both sides accepted these conditions during the latest round of negotiations.
Furthermore, Lebanon and Israel agreed to establish pilot zones in southern Lebanon. Under the arrangement, the Lebanese Armed Forces will exercise exclusive control. Authorities said no non-state actors will operate within these designated areas.
Ceasefire Follows Months of Escalating Violence
The announcement came despite continued violence earlier on Wednesday. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for attacks targeting Israeli troops near the border. Meanwhile, Israeli strikes reportedly killed at least ten people in southern Lebanon.
Shortly after the agreement, air raid alarms sounded in northern Israel. Israeli authorities reported detecting a suspicious aerial target. However, officials confirmed that the incident caused no casualties.
The ceasefire represents a significant diplomatic development between the two sides. Israel and Lebanon do not maintain formal diplomatic relations. Nevertheless, both parties participated in direct discussions under international mediation.
Further Talks Scheduled for June
The Washington meetings marked the fourth round of direct negotiations. Lebanese and Israeli diplomats have engaged in talks since renewed fighting erupted on March 2.
According to the joint statement, Hezbollah resumed attacks against Israel in support of Iran. Since then, hostilities have intensified along the border region. Consequently, international mediators have pushed for measures to prevent wider conflict.
Both sides agreed to continue discussions during the week of June 22. Negotiators hope to reach a more comprehensive agreement. Meanwhile, officials will monitor ceasefire conditions and developments on the ground.
