Israel and Lebanon agree conditional ceasefire tied to Hezbollah withdrawal

Thursday 04 June 2026 - 09:14

By: Dakir Madiha

Israel and Lebanon agree conditional ceasefire tied to Hezbollah withdrawal

Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a conditional ceasefire following two days of talks held in Washington under United States mediation. The deal links its implementation to a full cessation of Hezbollah fire and the withdrawal of all its operatives south of the Litani River, according to a joint statement issued by the parties involved.

The agreement also establishes pilot zones in southern Lebanon where the Lebanese Armed Forces would exercise exclusive control over territory. The arrangement excludes any non state armed actors and is designed to serve as a foundation for a broader security and political framework between the two countries.

The deal comes amid ongoing violence that has continued to undermine previous attempts at de escalation. Hezbollah officials had previously rejected the idea of a partial ceasefire, insisting that any arrangement must include a complete halt to hostilities across Lebanese territory. Despite an earlier announcement of a limited truce, clashes in southern Lebanon continued at reduced intensity.

The conflict has caused extensive casualties since it escalated, with thousands killed in Lebanon and Israeli military losses reported since the beginning of hostilities. Israeli forces have expanded their presence in parts of southern Lebanon, with estimates placing their control at roughly 2,000 square kilometers, close to a fifth of the country, following crossings beyond the Litani River. The joint declaration also condemned regional attacks attributed to Iran and outlined plans for renewed political and security talks scheduled for the week of June 22. Lebanese leadership has maintained that a full Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon remains a non negotiable condition for any further diplomatic engagement.