Israel and Lebanon agree ceasefire framework as regional tensions ease

Israel and Lebanon announced agreement on a ceasefire framework on Thursday, with implementation contingent on Hezbollah ceasing attacks across the border. The United States State Department issued a joint statement rejecting what it called "any attempt, by any state or non-state actor, to hold Lebanon's future hostage," signalling American backing for the accord.

The agreement follows weeks of escalating military exchanges and regional instability that have drawn international concern. The framework represents a pause in direct hostilities between the two countries, though its durability depends on Hezbollah's compliance with ceasefire terms.

The development comes amid broader Middle Eastern volatility, including parallel tensions between the United States and Iran, and reflects international efforts to contain conflicts that risk wider destabilisation. The ceasefire's implementation will be closely monitored by regional and international observers.