Negotiations between the Israeli and Lebanese governments took place over four days in Washington, focusing on reducing Hezbollah's influence and Iran's role in Lebanon. Officials from the U.S., Israel, and Lebanon participated in the discussions, which resulted in a framework agreement, marking a significant political development between the two nations in four decades. However, skepticism remains regarding the agreement's potential for lasting peace, with concerns that it may provoke a violent response from Hezbollah.
The negotiations involved discussions on security issues and the terms of an Israeli withdrawal from certain areas in Lebanon. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was actively involved, holding multiple calls with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. The talks experienced fluctuations in progress, with both sides requesting additional time to consult with their respective governments.
The agreement has led to increased tensions within Lebanon, with Hezbollah organizing protests against it. Hezbollah's leader, Naim Qassem, condemned the deal, labeling it a humiliation and a surrender of sovereignty. In response, U.S. President Donald Trump congratulated Aoun on the agreement and expressed support for Lebanon's sovereignty and the implementation of the deal.