Israel and Lebanon have reached an agreement to extend the ceasefire and resume negotiations on security and political settlement issues. This is stated in a joint statement published by the U.S. State Department following another round of negotiations mediated by the United States.
According to the document, the further maintenance of the ceasefire will depend on the complete cessation of shelling by the Hezbollah group and the withdrawal of its armed formations from southern Lebanon.
The negotiations took place in Washington and lasted nearly nine hours. They occurred against the backdrop of Israel's warnings about a possible expansion of military operations in Lebanon, which could complicate U.S. diplomatic efforts in the region, including contacts with Iran.
The parties agreed to resume the negotiation process in the week starting June 22, with the aim of preparing a more comprehensive agreement.
The joint statement also mentions plans to create pilot zones where exclusive control over security will be transferred to the Lebanese Armed Forces. In these areas, there should be no non-state armed groups remaining.
Israel confirmed its position that guaranteeing the country's security is only possible under the condition of disarming Hezbollah and eliminating its military infrastructure on Lebanese territory.
"Israel confirmed that its security and respect for its territorial integrity can only be ensured through the disarmament of Hezbollah and the elimination of its infrastructure throughout Lebanon."
For its part, Lebanon stated the necessity of a complete cessation of hostilities, adherence to internationally recognized borders, and strengthening state sovereignty.
"Lebanon confirmed the need for mutual adherence to internationally recognized borders, the urgent need for a complete cessation of hostilities, emphasizing the principles of territorial integrity and full state sovereignty."
Beirut also committed to enhancing the capabilities of the national army with U.S. support to ensure effective control over the entire territory of the country.
The United States confirmed its readiness to continue supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces and to facilitate dialogue between the parties.
Additionally, the participants in the negotiations condemned Iran's actions, which they believe contribute to destabilizing the situation in the Middle East.
"All parties condemned Iran's attacks on countries in the region and current actions undermining stability in the Middle East, whether through support for its allies or through any other acts of aggression."
Earlier, on May 16, an agreement was reached with U.S. mediation to extend the ceasefire regime between Israel and Lebanon. However, in recent weeks, the parties have repeatedly accused each other of violating the ceasefire and continued to exchange strikes.
The new agreement allows for the preservation of a diplomatic channel between Israel and Lebanon and reduces the risk of further escalation at the border. However, the sustainability of the ceasefire will depend on the parties' fulfillment of their commitments, the situation surrounding Hezbollah, and the ability of international mediators to prevent the conflict from escalating into a new armed confrontation.
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