US Mediation Bears Fruit as Israel and Lebanon Agree to Ceasefire, Joint Statement Issued
WASHINGTON (IPS): The United States has announced that Israel and Lebanon have reached a ceasefire agreement following negotiations held in Washington.
According to a joint statement released by the U.S. Department of State, both countries agreed to a ceasefire aimed at ending the ongoing hostilities between the two sides.
The statement said the ceasefire will come into effect on the condition that Hezbollah completely halts all military operations and ensures the withdrawal of its fighters from the southern Litani sector.
Both parties also agreed to establish designated pilot zones where the Lebanese Armed Forces will exercise full control, and no non-state armed groups will be permitted to operate.
The security framework is intended to safeguard the sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of both Lebanon and Israel on a long-term basis. It also emphasizes the need to dismantle non-state armed groups and prevent their reconstitution.
The United States reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces in strengthening their capabilities so they can effectively enforce state sovereignty across the country.
The two nations are expected to resume political and security negotiations during the week beginning June 22 in an effort to reach a comprehensive agreement. The United States will continue to facilitate and coordinate the negotiation process.