Lebanon, Israel reportedly agree on 'pilot zones', ceasefire extension

Lebanon and Israel have reportedly reached an agreement to extend their ceasefire following two days of direct negotiations in Washington, according to sources speaking to Al-Arabiya. The agreement includes the establishment of military 'pilot zones' in southern Lebanon. These zones are intended areas from which the Israeli army would withdraw, allowing for the subsequent deployment of the Lebanese Army. Despite progress on technical aspects of the negotiations, significant difficulties were encountered, particularly concerning the timeline for Israeli withdrawal. Sources indicated that Lebanon demanded a clear schedule for the withdrawal, while Israel refused to commit to a specific date, instead linking any withdrawal to the ongoing security threat. The issue of Israeli withdrawal remains the primary point of contention between the two nations, despite advancements in other areas of discussion.

“

An agreement has been reached on creating military 'pilot zones' in south Lebanon.