Lebanon and Israel Sign Framework Agreement in Washington, With Hezbollah Disarmament Set as Condition

Lebanon and Israel signed a framework agreement in Washington on Friday, following four days of negotiations in the fifth round of direct, US-mediated talks between the two sides.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters after the talks concluded that Lebanon and Israel had reached a framework deal, describing it as “a first stage” and noting that “a lot of work still lies ahead” for both parties. Israeli officials have tied any troop withdrawal to the disarmament of Hezbollah, a longstanding sticking point in the negotiations.