Lebanon and Israel Sign a Framework Agreement Under American Sponsorship

SadaNews - Israel and Lebanon, under the auspices of the United States, signed a framework agreement on Friday following a fifth round of negotiations in Washington.

During the signing ceremony, where the flags of the three countries were raised together, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated, "We are pleased to announce a framework agreement between the sovereign Lebanese government and of course the government of Israel, with the mediation and support of the United States." He noted that this agreement paves the way for "a framework for lasting peace and security."

Lebanon's ambassador in Washington said, "The framework agreement is a step on the path to reclaiming Lebanese territory." She also acknowledged the difficulties of the negotiation rounds, stating, "This meeting was long and challenging, and we are grateful to the host party."

In contrast, Israel's ambassador in Washington stated, "Through this agreement, Iran and Hezbollah are taken out of the equation." He added, "Iran and its proxies want destruction, and we want a real peace between Israel and Lebanon."

Earlier, Israeli Channel 12 reported that sources indicated the agreement is expected to stipulate that Israel will remain in the Yellow Line area until Hezbollah's weapons are removed and the Lebanese state can take full security responsibility.

According to sources, the Israeli army will stay in the Yellow Line area until Hezbollah's weapons are removed and security responsibility is transferred to the Lebanese state.

It was further stated that a pilot security program will be implemented in cooperation between the Israeli army and the Lebanese army, emphasizing that the common goal of the agreement is to end all forms of Iranian influence in Lebanon.