Israel and Lebanon agreed on a ceasefire through the mediation of the U.S. The sides also agreed to continue direct negotiations and to begin preparations for a broader agreement on safety and conflict regulation.
The U.S. Department of State released a joint statement following the trilateral meeting held on June 2-3 between the representatives of the U.S., Israel and Lebanon.
The statement said that the ceasefire will take effect provided there is a complete halt to Hezbollah’s attacks and the evacuation of all its personnel from the area south of the Litani River.
«As a result of the U.S.-led negotiations, Israel and Lebanon agreed to the implementation of a ceasefire,» the statement read.
Among the key decisions was the establishment of pilot zones to be placed under the exclusive control of the Lebanese Armed Forces, with all non-state armed groups excluded.
The statement highlighted that these steps are expected to pave the way for a comprehensive peace and security agreement between the two countries.
The sides also reassured each other of a lack of hostile intent and agreed to maintain direct communication.
«All countries reaffirmed that the future of the relationship between Israel and Lebanon must be decided by the two sovereign governments,» the statement read.
The sides discussed a new security framework to strengthen both countries’ sovereignty, along with measures to prevent the re-emergence of armed non-state groups.
The three countries condemned Iran’s regional activities and its support for proxy armed groups, citing their impact on regional stability.
The U.S. reaffirmed its readiness to continue supporting the Lebanese army to enhance state authority over the country’s entire territory. Israel, for its part, reiterated that it considers sustainable security possible only following the complete disarmament of Hezbollah and the dismantlement of its infrastructure.
The parties agreed to resume political and security talks the week of June 22, with a view toward reaching a comprehensive agreement.
