Israel and Lebanon agree to implement ceasefire if Hizbullah stops attacks

Lebanon and Israel have reached an agreement to implement a ceasefire, a development brokered by the United States aimed at de-escalating the conflict that has flared alongside regional tensions. The proposed truce hinges on a complete cessation of hostilities by the Iran-aligned Hezbollah militia and the withdrawal of all its operatives from the South Litani Sector in Lebanon.

According to a joint statement with the U.S., both nations have agreed to "swiftly advance the creation of pilot zones in which the Lebanese Armed Forces will take exclusive control of the territory to the exclusion of all non-state actors." This move seeks to establish a buffer and assert state authority in contested areas.

This latest agreement follows previous attempts at a cessation of hostilities in April and May, which ultimately failed to halt the violence. Recent incidents underscore the fragility of the situation: Israeli drone strikes killed at least six people in southern Lebanon and targeted a car near Beirut on Wednesday, while Israel reported intercepting an aircraft likely fired by Hezbollah.

The U.S.-mediated deal announced Monday had initially led to a de-escalation, with Israel stepping back from attacks on Beirut's southern suburbs and Hezbollah halting cross-border strikes. However, the underlying issues remain unresolved. Iran has stated it will not agree to an end to its conflict with the U.S. and Israel unless a ceasefire also encompasses Lebanon.

Lebanon and Israel have committed to further direct negotiations, scheduled for the week of June 22nd, to build confidence and address outstanding issues with the aim of reaching a comprehensive agreement. The ongoing political and security-related talks signal a continued effort to find a lasting resolution, despite the persistent challenges.

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The two sides agreed with the guidance of the United States to swiftly advance the creation of pilot zones in which the Lebanese Armed Forces will take exclusive control of the territory to the exclusion of all non-state actors.