Israel, Lebanon reach framework agreement, ceasefire

Israel and Lebanon have reached a framework agreement aimed at ensuring “lasting peace and security,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Friday.

The agreement, which emerged as a result of negotiations mediated by the United States, calls for a ceasefire between the two countries.

This ceasefire is contingent on a complete cessation of fire by the paramilitary group Hezbollah and the evacuation of all Hezbollah operatives from the Southern Litani District in southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah was not a party to Friday’s agreement. It is unclear whether the group will abide by any ceasefire.

However, ending hostilities between Israel and Lebanon is vital to achieving a lasting peace agreement between the United States and Iran, Hezbollah’s sponsor.

The United States and Israel launched a war against Iran in late February. The United States signed a memorandum of understanding with Iran to halt this conflict for at least 60 days while peace talks continue.

“Today is a good day when we are happy to announce a framework agreement between the sovereign government of Lebanon and, of course, the government of Israel, with the mediation and support of the United States, that begins to create a framework for lasting peace and security,” Rubio said. he said.

“And that’s what these two nations deserve,” he said.

“The two sides agreed on U.S. guidance to rapidly advance the creation of pilot zones where the Lebanese Armed Forces will take exclusive control of the region to the exclusion of all non-state actors,” the State Department said in a statement. he said.

“These steps will ensure progress towards a comprehensive peace and security agreement,” the State Department said. he said.

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