A confidential security annex to the Lebanon-Israel framework agreement, obtained by Asharq Bloomberg, reveals detailed implementation plans for the US-brokered deal. The six-part document outlines security arrangements including the disarmament of Iran-backed Hezbollah and other armed groups, deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces in southern Lebanon, and a phased withdrawal of Israeli troops.
Establishment of a Pilot Security Zone
According to the document, the parties would immediately establish a pilot security zone south of the Litani River through a four-stage process. This involves clearance of non-state armed groups, third-party verification, deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces, and state-led reconstruction backed by international assistance.
The annex states that the Lebanese Armed Forces would lead implementation and be responsible for ensuring the disarmament of Hezbollah and all other non-state armed groups, preventing them from maintaining any military role or capability inside Lebanon.
Military Coordination Group for Lebanon
The annex calls for the establishment of a 24-hour Military Coordination Group for Lebanon (MCG4L), comprising Israeli and Lebanese representatives. This group would oversee the agreement’s implementation, monitor compliance, and coordinate military movements to prevent clashes.
Under the proposed framework, Israel would carry out a phased and conditions-based redeployment from Lebanese territory once an agreed and verifiable disarmament process had been completed. Israeli withdrawals would take place alongside the deployment of Lebanese troops.
Long-term Objectives and Review Mechanisms
The annex says the long-term objective is to restore full Lebanese state authority throughout the country while ensuring Israel’s long-term security. Implementation would be subject to periodic reviews facilitated by the US, with any disputes resolved through trilateral discussions, according to the document.
Lebanon, Israel, and the US announced the framework agreement on Friday, describing it as a road map toward a permanent settlement following four days of negotiations in Washington. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun welcomed the agreement as a first step toward restoring state authority across the country. In contrast, Hezbollah’s Secretary-General Naim Qassem rejected the framework, saying it should instead be replaced by the US-Iran memorandum of understanding.
