On the way to a ceasefire? Amid reports of progress in negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, Channel 13 revealed this evening (Wednesday) sections of the draft agreement taking shape, outlining the expected steps. Meanwhile, Israeli officials said that "if they reach agreements on the disputed clauses – it is possible to sign within days."
According to the report, the ceasefire will come into effect "after discussions between the governments," with "Israel and Lebanon working to implement resolutions 1701 and 1559 (which mean preventing Hezbollah's strengthening in Lebanon)." It was also written that "with the entry into force of the ceasefire, Hezbollah and all armed groups in Lebanon will not act against Israel." Israel, for its part, will not operate in Lebanon against targets within its territory, including civilian and governmental targets.
After the ceasefire, Israel will be able to remain in Lebanon for 60 days and then will be required to withdraw completely. At the same time, it was stated that "the Lebanese army will be deployed at all crossings in the country, both land and maritime, at both regulated and unregulated crossings." Additionally, in the agreement between Israel and Lebanon, they call on the USA and the international community to facilitate indirect negotiations regarding the land border between them.
The agreement will be accompanied by an American letter of guarantee that will ensure Israel's freedom of action in Lebanon. The letter will state that "Israel will be able to act against immediate threats to it from Lebanese territory. Israel has the right to defend itself and ensure its security along the northern border. The U.S. is committed to helping Israel defend its security."
However, the report stated that at this stage, there are still disputes over the agreement – primarily the commitment in the American letter that Israel will be able to act against "immediate threats," as well as the fact that the American administration will be the one to manage the committee that will be established to enforce Hezbollah's violations. According to Lebanon, the U.S. is a party that tends to favour Israel.
