Leaked draft shows Lebanon deal would include global oversight, Israeli freedom to act

Lazar Berman is The Times of Israel's diplomatic reporter

Troops operating in south Lebanon in an undated photo released by the military for publication on October 28, 2024 (Israel Defense Forces)
Troops operating in south Lebanon in an undated photo released by the military for publication on October 28, 2024 (Israel Defense Forces)

The ceasefire proposal between Israel and Hezbollah that the US is pushing begins with a 60-day implementation period, during which time the Lebanese army will deploy along the border and confiscate Hezbollah arms in southern Lebanon, according to a draft agreement published by Kan news.

IDF forces will exit Lebanon within seven days of the end of hostilities and will be replaced by the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), with UN peacekeepers facilitating the transition. Ultimately, there will be 10,000 LAF troops along the border with Israel.

At the end of the 60 days, Israel and Lebanon will hold indirect negotiations through the US on fully implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and resolving border disputes.

A new International Monitoring and Enforcement Mechanism (IMEM) will be created, chaired by the US, and include Italy, France, Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom, UNIFIL and regional countries.

Israel “may choose to act against violations” and can respond to threats from Lebanese territory, according to the draft. If Lebanon or IMEM don’t address weapons shipments or production, Israel can strike such targets, after consulting with the US.

Israel can still conduct intelligence flights over Lebanon, but they should not be visible to the naked eye or break the sound barrier.

There is also a draft side letter between the US and Israel affirming Israel’s right to self-defense, and saying the US will play a lead role in implementing the ceasefire and ensuring Lebanon meets its commitments.

As the Kan report begins being picked up by other outlets, White House National Security Council spokesperson Sean Savett issues a statement asserting, “There are many reports and drafts circulating. They do not reflect the current state of negotiations.”

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