Lebanon and Israel have approved a framework agreement that could end the conflict.
According to Oxu.Az citing the Interfax agency, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced this.
"Today is a good day. We are pleased to announce that with U.S. mediation and support, a framework agreement has been reached between the sovereign Lebanese government and, of course, the Israeli government," he said during a speech at the State Department.
Lebanon's ambassador to the U.S., Nada Hamadeh Mouawad, emphasized that the agreement, if implemented, would be a first step towards restoring the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as laying the groundwork for a complete cessation of hostilities.
Israel's ambassador to the U.S., Yehiel Leiter, stated that this agreement confirms that Israel and Lebanon have stepped onto the path of peace, "leaving Iran and Hezbollah behind."
According to The Times of Israel, citing sources, under the agreement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will begin a phased withdrawal from southern Lebanon. The Lebanese Armed Forces will ensure security in the areas vacated by Israeli troops.
It is noted that the agreement was reached on the fourth day of the fifth round of negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, mediated by the U.S.
