Israel and Lebanon Reach US‑Mediated Conditional Ceasefire

Israel and Lebanon concluded a fourth round of direct talks under U.S. mediation, issuing a joint statement that a ceasefire will take effect only if Iran‑backed Hezbollah halts all attacks and withdraws its fighters from the South Litani area of southern Lebanon. The parties also agreed to establish pilot security zones in which the Lebanese Armed Forces will be the sole authority, laying groundwork for a broader peace and security framework.

Despite the agreement, clashes persisted. Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon killed at least nine civilians and injured several others, while Hezbollah claimed responsibility for targeting Israeli forces. The fighting has also claimed the lives of health workers and an ambulance crew. Both sides said they will reconvene on the week of June 22 to discuss political and security issues further. The United States reaffirmed its support for Lebanese sovereignty and for strengthening the Lebanese army’s capacity, while U.S. President Donald Trump emphasized that the Lebanon‑Iran dimension should be addressed separately from the ceasefire negotiations.