Hezbollah’s leader, Naim Kassem, criticized a framework agreement signed by Israel and Lebanon to end months of conflict between the Iran-backed militant group and Israel. The agreement, signed in Washington, links Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanon to Hezbollah’s disarmament, which the group rejects.
Deal Details
The deal aims to eventually end the state of war between Israel and Lebanon that began in 1948. Israel will withdraw from two small areas, called pilot zones, and the Lebanese army will assume full security responsibility over those areas. The countries will agree to future pilot zones for Israel’s withdrawal in the future.
Hezbollah’s leader called the agreement a ‘humiliation’ and warned that the group will keep fighting until Israel is forced to leave Lebanon. The deal has sparked concerns about its effectiveness, with some Israelis and Lebanese doubting its ability to last.
Reaction to the Deal
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces will remain in southern Lebanon until Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations are disarmed. Lebanon’s top public prosecutor has instructed security agencies to take measures to prevent riots.
The deal also includes a security annex that outlines the deployment of the Lebanese army and the redeployment of Israeli troops. The annex was not made public.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
