The United States announced that Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a temporary halt in hostilities starting Thursday at 5 p.m. Eastern Time, creating a 10-day window for peace negotiations that could potentially be lengthened if both nations consent.
According to the State Department, this cessation of fighting represents a crucial step toward resolving the conflict that has become a significant barrier to President Donald Trump’s broader peace initiative aimed at ending the war with Iran that began in late February alongside Israel. The ongoing conflict has caused major disruptions to worldwide energy markets, driving up oil costs and threatening additional economic consequences.
Under the terms of the agreement released by U.S. officials, Lebanon’s government must ensure that Hezbollah and other armed non-governmental organizations within its borders refrain from launching attacks against Israel once the truce begins.
The ceasefire document states: “All parties recognize Lebanon’s security forces as having exclusive responsibility for Lebanon’s sovereignty and national defense; no other country or group has claim to be the guarantor of Lebanon’s sovereignty.”
While Israel retains the right to defend itself against planned or active threats during this period, the nation has committed to avoiding any offensive military actions within Lebanese territory throughout the 10-day timeframe.
Both countries have asked the United States to help mediate ongoing discussions to address outstanding concerns, including establishing clear borders between the two nations, as outlined in the ceasefire terms.
The State Department’s released text indicates: “Israel and Lebanon affirm that the two countries are not at war and commit to engaging in good-faith direct negotiations, facilitated by the United States, with the objective of achieving a comprehensive agreement that ensures lasting security, stability, and peace between the two countries.”
