Israel, Lebanon and US unveil framework tying Israeli withdrawal to Hezbollah disarmament

The United States released the full text of a framework agreement signed in Washington on Wednesday night by Israel, Lebanon and the US. The deal says Israel will withdraw from southern Lebanon only after Hezbollah is disarmed, and it sets out a gradual process meant to end the conflict between the two countries and create the basis for a stable, peaceful border.

Under the terms, Israel and Lebanon recognize each other’s right to live in peace and security, and both sides commit to ending the war conditionally by dealing with its root causes. Lebanon pledges to restore state sovereignty across its territory, dismantle all armed groups not acting on behalf of the state, and ensure those groups play no military or security role. Israel says it has no intention of occupying Lebanese territory and that any military action in Lebanon will be only in response to Hezbollah attacks, threats or hostile intent.

The agreement calls for the Lebanese Armed Forces to gradually take control of all Lebanon, including full security control over two former Hezbollah-held areas in southern Lebanon that will serve as pilot zones. Once those areas are cleared of weapons and infrastructure belonging to non-state armed groups, Lebanon will assume full responsibility there, with reconstruction backed by international support and the return of Lebanese civilians. The Lebanese government will also need to secure a monopoly on force throughout the country, with US-backed international assistance and regular monitoring tied to measurable progress and transparency.

The two governments also agree to form a military coordination mechanism with US support, draft a broader peace and security agreement, and maintain an ongoing communication channel managed by Washington. The framework says both sides will avoid hostile actions in diplomatic or legal arenas and will work to locate and return bodies and detainees. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz called the deal “a historic event and a political and security achievement,” while the governments thanked President Donald Trump for US leadership.