Netanyahu Announces Framework Agreement With Lebanon, Hails “Historic Achievement”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that Israel and Lebanon have reached a framework of understandings aimed at advancing efforts to end hostilities between the two countries and potentially pave the way for a future peace agreement.
Speaking during a press conference on Friday, Netanyahu described the development as a “historic achievement” and said the framework was reached following direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, mediated by the United States.
According to the Israeli leader, the agreement includes understandings regarding security arrangements along the Israel-Lebanon border. Netanyahu stated that Israel would continue to maintain its security presence in designated areas until it determines that threats posed by Hezbollah and other armed groups have been neutralized.
He also said Israel, Lebanon, and the United States had agreed on a pilot programme involving two areas near the so-called Yellow Line, where efforts would be made to disarm Hezbollah and transfer security responsibilities to the Lebanese Armed Forces.
Netanyahu characterized the agreement as a major setback for Iran and Hezbollah, accusing Tehran of attempting to influence developments in southern Lebanon and pressure Israel into withdrawing from the area.
The Prime Minister thanked U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio for their involvement in the negotiations. He also acknowledged the role of the Lebanese government and Israeli diplomatic officials in reaching the framework.
During the address, Netanyahu highlighted Israel’s military operations against Hezbollah since the outbreak of the conflict, claiming that the group had suffered significant losses in personnel, leadership, and military capabilities. He said Israeli forces would continue operations aimed at dismantling what he described as terrorist infrastructure along the border region.
The Israeli leader expressed hope that the understandings could serve as a foundation for broader stability between the two neighboring countries, while emphasizing that security for residents of northern Israel remained a key priority.
Netanyahu also announced plans for substantial investment in northern Israeli communities affected by the conflict, saying the government intends to support reconstruction, economic recovery, and long-term development in the region.
The announcement comes amid ongoing tensions across the Middle East and follows months of international diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing cross-border hostilities between Israel and Lebanon.
Lebanese authorities have not yet issued a detailed public response to Netanyahu’s remarks, and the full text of the reported framework agreement has not been released. Observers say further negotiations and implementation measures will be closely watched as both sides assess the prospects for lasting stability along the border.
Netanyahu Announces Framework Agreement With Lebanon, Hails “Historic Achievement”