Arabic version: إسرائيل ولبنان يوقعان اتفاق إطار وسط التوترات المستمرة

Israel and Lebanon have reached a new framework agreement following four days of negotiations in Washington, D.C., facilitated by the United States. This agreement aims to address the ongoing conflict that has resulted in over 4,000 deaths since fighting resumed on March 2. Despite a previous ceasefire in November 2024, Israel’s continued occupation of Lebanese territory has exacerbated tensions.

According to Al Jazeera, the new deal does not mandate an immediate withdrawal of Israeli forces but instead ties their redeployment to the disarmament of Hezbollah, a condition that the group has consistently rejected. Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem has labeled the agreement as “null and void,” insisting that Israel must first end its occupation of Lebanese land.

The framework outlines a “sequenced process” for the Lebanese army to regain authority over its territory, contingent on the verified disarmament of non-state armed groups, specifically referring to Hezbollah. The agreement proposes two pilot zones where the Lebanese military will gradually assume security responsibilities, although it does not specify a timeline for the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces.

Reactions to the agreement have varied significantly. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the framework, asserting that it allows Israeli military presence as long as Hezbollah remains armed. Meanwhile, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed gratitude for the U.S. mediation, viewing the agreement as a step toward restoring Lebanon’s sovereignty. However, Hezbollah’s response has been one of outright rejection, with Qassem condemning the linkage between Israeli withdrawal and the group’s disarmament as a violation of Lebanese sovereignty.

The United States, represented by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, announced a $100 million humanitarian assistance package in conjunction with the agreement. Rubio acknowledged the challenges ahead, emphasizing the need for further work to ensure lasting peace. Meanwhile, Iran has not officially responded but has criticized the agreement through state media, suggesting it undermines previous ceasefire commitments.