WASHINGTON — Israel and Lebanon agreed to extend a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, contingent on a complete cessation of attacks by Hezbollah, following talks in Washington this week, the State Department said.
The agreement, reached on June 3, includes plans to establish pilot security zones in southern Lebanon under the control of the Lebanese Armed Forces, according to a joint statement from the United States, Israel and Lebanon.
It builds on a ceasefire that took effect on April 16 and has been extended multiple times, most recently by 45 days in May.
The latest understanding aims to reduce hostilities between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah group while creating conditions for further negotiations, U.S. officials said. Hezbollah, which was not part of the direct talks, has rejected key terms of the deal.
“Israel and Lebanon have agreed to implement a ceasefire that would require a complete cessation of fire by Hezbollah,” a joint statement said.
The talks involved Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter and Lebanese Ambassador to the U.S. Nada Hamadeh, with U.S. facilitation. Further meetings are planned for later in June.
The ceasefire has helped reduce cross-border violence that escalated earlier in the year. Details on the exact duration of the latest extension and enforcement mechanisms remain subject to implementation.
Israeli officials have emphasized the need for security guarantees along the border, including the withdrawal of Hezbollah operatives south of the Litani River. Lebanese authorities have stressed the importance of Israeli withdrawal from certain positions and support for reconstruction efforts.
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has publicly opposed the agreement, calling for additional concessions including prisoner releases and aid for displaced residents.
The U.S. State Department described the discussions as productive but acknowledged that full compliance by all parties is required for the ceasefire to hold. Incidents of alleged violations have been reported by both sides in recent weeks, though major escalations have been limited.
The development comes amid broader regional tensions. No immediate changes to military postures were announced following the agreement.
Talks are scheduled to resume in the coming weeks to address remaining issues, including border demarcation and long-term security arrangements.
