Lebanon and Israel signed a US-sponsored “framework deal” in Washington on Friday, concluding the fifth round of negotiations aimed at resolving outstanding disputes, including Israel’s continued occupation of parts of southern Lebanon. The US Department of State later published the full text, which affirms a shared goal of achieving “lasting peace and security” in Lebanon.
Key Provisions of the Framework
The framework declares the sides’ “ambition to end conflict between them, ensure the sovereignty and security of both countries, and establish peaceful neighbourly relations.” Israel continues to occupy areas in southern Lebanon, some held for decades and others seized during the 2023-2024 war. During its latest offensive, Israeli forces advanced more than 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) into Lebanese territory. Since March 2, 2026, Israel's offensive in Lebanon has killed more than 4,000 people, wounded more than 12,000 others, and displaced more than one million people, according to official Lebanese figures.
Phased Withdrawal and Disarmament
Israel and Lebanon commit to a phased process in which the Lebanese army restores authority across Lebanon, non-state armed groups are disarmed, and Israeli forces gradually withdraw. The Lebanese army will take control of an initial two pilot zones after disarmament, allowing phased Israeli withdrawals, reconstruction, and the return of civilians. More pilot zones are to be designated by mutual consent.
Lebanon's Sovereignty and Hezbollah Disarmament
Lebanon pledges to restore full sovereignty, disarm all non-state armed groups, and ensure the state has sole authority to use force, with US-led international and Arab support. Israel states it has no territorial ambitions in Lebanon and that disarming Hezbollah and other groups would “eliminate any future need” for Israeli military action or presence. Lebanon reaffirms that only its state security forces are responsible for national security, rejecting any state or non-state actor’s use of force on its behalf without explicit authorisation.
Security and Reconstruction
Both sides affirm their right to self-defence but say no third party may act on their behalf, agreeing to form a US-backed military coordination group. The US will support strengthening the Lebanese army’s control and disarmament, with new assistance tied to verifiable milestones. The US will also work with international partners to rebuild Lebanon's infrastructure and economy, including reconstruction aid, humanitarian assistance, and investment. Lebanon and the US commit to preventing reconstruction funds from reaching non-state armed groups.
Path to Comprehensive Peace
Lebanon and Israel will establish US-facilitated working groups to draft a comprehensive peace and security agreement. Both commit to good-faith measures, including ending hostile actions in international forums and working to return human remains and release detainees. Both governments acknowledge the US's role, expressing appreciation for the leadership and vision of President Donald Trump.
