Israel, Lebanon, US sign framework agreement amid ongoing bombardments

Israel, Lebanon, and the United States signed a framework agreement in Washington on June 26, aiming to establish "durable peace and security." US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described it as a "first step." However, Israel continues military operations in Lebanon, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating Israel "will remain in the South Lebanon security zone as long as necessary." An Israeli government spokesperson, David Mencer, reiterated on June 25 that forces would only withdraw once the Iran-backed Hezbollah group is disarmed. This comes amidst ongoing US-Iran negotiations that reportedly include a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, suggesting a potential divergence in objectives between the US and Israel. Separately, France and Italy announced plans on June 25 to form a multinational coalition to bolster Lebanese sovereignty after the UNIFIL mandate concludes in December. Sources: Le Monde.