Israel and Lebanon have reached a conditional agreement to implement a ceasefire, contingent on a complete cessation of hostilities by the Iran-backed Hezbollah group. This was disclosed in a joint statement released following US-led negotiations in Washington on Wednesday, US Time.
Key Terms of the Agreement
Both nations have also agreed to establish pilot zones in southern Lebanon, where the Lebanese Armed Forces will maintain exclusive control, excluding all non-state actors from the area. This provision aims to prevent any armed groups, including Hezbollah, from operating near the Israeli border.
Ongoing Hostilities
The agreement comes amid continued fighting between the two sides. According to Lebanon's health ministry, Hezbollah reported targeting Israeli troops, while Israeli strikes killed at least 10 people in southern Lebanon. The casualties included four Syrians, two Palestinians, and three paramedics, highlighting the toll on civilians and medical personnel.
Immediate Reactions
Hours after the ceasefire announcement, air raid sirens sounded across northern Israel after authorities identified a suspicious aerial target. However, no casualties were reported. The Israeli military stated that it intercepted a hostile aircraft and two projectiles launched from Lebanon.
Hezbollah, meanwhile, claimed responsibility for firing rockets and deploying drones against Israeli positions in southern Lebanon, including areas near Chqif Castle and the town of Al-Qantara. The group described these attacks as a response to alleged Israeli violations of previous understandings.
Diplomatic Context
The Washington talks marked the fourth round of direct diplomacy between the parties since March 2, when Hezbollah resumed attacks on Israel in support of Iran. The US has played a mediating role, seeking to de-escalate tensions and prevent a broader regional conflict.
