Lebanon‑Israel US‑mediated truce faces Hezbollah protest and Lebanese political opposition

A United States‑brokered framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel was signed in Washington, linking an Israeli pull‑out from Lebanon to the disarmament of Hezbollah. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem denounced the deal as “humiliating” and a “surrender of sovereignty,” vowing that the resistance would continue on the ground. Hundreds of Hezbollah supporters protested in Beirut, riding motorcycles and gathering near the parliament and Rafik al‑Hariri airport.

Lebanese Amal party head Nabih Berri said the agreement would not be ratified, calling it “an agreement of dictatorship” that fails to protect Lebanese rights. Israeli security officials warned of a high probability of attacks from Lebanon and Iran, and the Israeli cabinet approved an extension of its internal emergency powers. Shortly after the deal, the Israeli army carried out an airstrike in southern Lebanon’s Nabatiyeh area, targeting suspected terrorists. Italian foreign minister Antonio Tajani said Italy stands ready to assist with reconstruction and possible international missions.

The truce remains contested domestically in Lebanon while Israel maintains heightened security alerts.