WASHINGTON : In a statement, the US State Department said the agreement includes accelerated efforts to establish pilot zones where the Lebanese Armed Forces will exercise exclusive control, with all non-governmental armed groups excluded from those areas.

According to the agreement, the ceasefire is contingent on a complete cessation of fire by Hezbollah and the withdrawal of its fighters from areas south of the Litani River. The measures are intended to strengthen the Lebanese army’s authority and pave the way for a broader agreement aimed at enhancing security and stability between Lebanon and Israel.

The two delegations also discussed a security framework based on previous talks held at the Pentagon on May 29. The framework includes provisions for dismantling non-state armed groups and preventing their return to former areas of operation.

The US State Department said both sides committed to continuing direct negotiations to address outstanding issues and work toward a comprehensive agreement, with talks set to resume on June 22.

The United States also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting and strengthening the capabilities of the Lebanese Armed Forces to enable them to extend state authority across Lebanese territory. The United States said it would continue facilitating communication between Lebanon and Israel during the implementation phase of the agreement.

During the negotiations, Lebanon stressed the need for an immediate and comprehensive cessation of hostilities, respect for international borders, and the preservation of state sovereignty. Israel, meanwhile, reaffirmed its commitment to direct negotiations under US auspices to resolve remaining security concerns.

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