US Announces Israel-Lebanon Framework Agreement, Paving Way for Peace Deal
The United States has announced a landmark framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon, a move seen as paving the way for a broader peace agreement between the two neighboring countries.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the framework following the fifth round of Israel-Lebanon talks held in Washington, where representatives from both sides signed the agreement.
Rubio said he was pleased to announce the framework agreement between the sovereign governments of Lebanon and Israel, achieved through US mediation and support.
According to the US Secretary of State, the agreement establishes a mechanism for the disarmament of Hezbollah and the dismantling of its military infrastructure. He added that once threats to Israeli citizens are eliminated, Israel will be able to restore security along its borders.
The agreement also provides for the establishment of a trilateral military coordination group, facilitated by the United States, to oversee implementation and enhance security cooperation.
Rubio described the deal as “the beginning of lasting peace and security,” while acknowledging that significant work remains to ensure its successful implementation.
Israel’s ambassador to the United States said the trilateral framework agreement would move forward based on practical implementation and mutual commitments.
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam welcomed the agreement, saying Lebanon’s responsibility under the framework is to establish full state authority across the country. He added that the primary objective is to ensure the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from all Lebanese territory.
**Hezbollah Rejects Agreement**
Hezbollah strongly condemned the framework agreement signed by the United States, Israel, and Lebanon.
Hezbollah lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah claimed that the agreement reached in Washington was an attempt to sabotage the “Islamabad Track.” He warned that Hezbollah would oppose any measures taken by the Lebanese authorities under the agreement.
Fadlallah further stated that Hezbollah would keep its weapons in a heightened state of readiness and vowed to resist any efforts by Lebanese officials to implement commitments that, in the group’s view, undermine its position.
