Israel and Lebanon agree to implementation of ceasefire
Ceasefire Agreement and Ongoing Negotiations
By Costas Pitas
June 3 (Reuters) - Lebanon and Israel said on Wednesday that they had agreed to the implementation of a ceasefire following negotiations in Washington aimed at ending the conflict that flared up alongside the war in Iran.
Conditions of the Ceasefire
The ceasefire is contingent on a complete cessation of fire from the Iran-aligned Hezbollah militia and the evacuation of all of its operatives from the South Litani Sector, according to a joint statement released with the United States.
Role of the Lebanese Armed Forces
"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," they said.
Previous Efforts and Continued Violence
Israel and Lebanon had previously agreed to a cessation of hostilities in April that was then extended in May, but violence has continued.
Recent Incidents
Israeli drone strikes killed at least six people in southern Lebanon and targeted a car south of Beirut on Wednesday, Lebanese security sources said. Israel said it intercepted a hostile aircraft likely fired by Hezbollah.
Impact of U.S.-Mediated Agreement
A U.S.-mediated agreement announced on Monday had led Israel to step back from attacking the Hezbollah-controlled southern suburbs of Beirut, and the Iran-backed group to halt cross-border strikes.
Background of the Conflict
Israel invaded Lebanon in March in pursuit of Hezbollah which fired across the border in support of Tehran.
Iran has said it will not agree to a deal to end the conflict with the United States and Israel launched in late February unless a ceasefire also covers Lebanon.
Future Talks and Comprehensive Agreement
Lebanon and Israel on Wednesday agreed to further direct negotiations to build confidence and resolve other outstanding issues.
Planned Political and Security Talks
The pair will reconvene to hold political and security-related talks during the week of June 22 with a view toward a comprehensive agreement, according to the statement.
(Reporting by Costas Pitas; Editing by Lincoln Feast and Neil Fullick)
