U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a U.S.-brokered framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon following intensive negotiations in Washington, D.C. The United States, Israel, and Lebanon formally signed the trilateral framework deal in the American capital — the outcome of the fifth round of talks held under U.S. mediation.
A Framework for De-escalation and Security
The agreement outlines a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from parts of southern Lebanon and the deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) into those areas, with U.S. support. While the full text of the agreement has not been made public, its stated objective is to pave the way for “sustainable peace and security,” according to Rubio.
“We are pleased to announce a framework agreement between the sovereign government of Lebanon and the government of Israel, mediated by the United States,” Rubio said before the signing ceremony.
Netanyahu: ‘A Significant Achievement’ — With Conditions
Shortly after the signing, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the deal as “a significant achievement.” However, he emphasized that Israel will maintain its so-called “security zone” in southern Lebanon for as long as Hezbollah remains armed and poses a threat to the State of Israel.
“This is also an important blow to Iran,” Netanyahu added, accusing Tehran of attempting to force Israel’s withdrawal through violence. “Iran — and Hezbollah, and any terrorist organization — have no role in Lebanon. This agreement affirms that clearly.”
He confirmed that the agreement includes the establishment of two pilot security zones — both recommended by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). One lies entirely outside the existing security zone, south of the Litani River; the other is located north of the Litani, with a small portion extending into the recently expanded security zone secured by Israeli forces over the past two weeks — a zone the IDF says it no longer requires. Netanyahu stressed that Israel will retain its original security zone beyond the range of enemy fire.
The framework is expected to help de-escalate tensions along the Israel–Lebanon border and lay the groundwork for a new regional security arrangement.