Israel and Lebanon reach agreement following U.S.-brokered negotiations

On Friday, following a fifth round of U.S.-mediated negotiations in Washington, Israel and Lebanon reached an agreement aimed at ending hostilities. The deal outlines the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory and the deployment of the Lebanese army in areas previously held by Israeli troops. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the agreement on Saturday, characterizing it as a crucial step toward regional stability. She emphasized that future priorities include the disarmament of non-state groups and the preservation of Lebanon’s territorial integrity. According to Lebanese authorities, the conflict, which began on March 2, has resulted in over 4,000 deaths and the displacement of more than one million people. The European Union has pledged 100 million euros in humanitarian aid to support the displaced population. Von der Leyen expressed the EU's readiness to assist in maintaining long-term stability in the region.