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The agreement signed in Washington paves the way for formal negotiations between the two countries after decades of hostility, while the US calls it the "first step" towards stability on Israel's northern border.
After decades of conflict and a lack of formal relations, Israel and Lebanon took a significant diplomatic step on Friday, signing a framework agreement brokered by the United States in Washington. The agreement is considered historic, as it lays the groundwork for the launch of formal negotiations between the two countries and the implementation of a plan aimed at reducing tensions along the border.
The signing ceremony took place after five rounds of intensive negotiations, in which US Secretary of State Marco Rubio was personally involved.
"This is the beginning of the beginning. We have a lot of work ahead of us. Today we took the first step and, sometimes, it is even the most difficult," Rubio declared during the ceremony.
The agreement envisages a gradual process, with the Israeli military initially withdrawing from certain areas of southern Lebanon, while control is transferred to the Lebanese army. However, Israel has made it clear that a full withdrawal will depend on Hezbollah disarming and guarantees that the group will not re-establish its military presence near the border.
According to Israeli television Channel 12, the first phase will be implemented in two pilot areas, while Israel will continue to hold positions along the "Blue Line" until security conditions are met.
In a statement after the signing, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the agreement a "significant achievement," emphasizing that "Israel's security comes first" and that the military presence in the security zone will continue until Hezbollah no longer poses a threat.
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