Israel and Lebanon have agreed to renew their fragile ceasefire under a new US-backed arrangement that proposes the creation of security zones in southern Lebanon where Hezbollah operatives would be barred.

The agreement emerged after a fourth round of negotiations mediated by the United States and is aimed at reducing tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border. Under the proposal, Hezbollah fighters would withdraw from areas between the Israeli frontier and the Litani River, while the Lebanese Armed Forces would assume exclusive control of designated pilot security zones.

Despite the diplomatic breakthrough, hostilities reportedly continued on both sides. Lebanese authorities said Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon caused multiple casualties, while Israel reported intercepting projectiles and an unmanned aircraft launched from Lebanese territory.

Hezbollah acknowledged firing rockets into northern Israel, describing the action as a response to alleged ceasefire violations, but distanced itself from the latest negotiations, saying it does not recognise the outcome of the Washington talks.

The renewed ceasefire effort comes amid growing international concern over the risk of a wider regional conflict. Both Israeli and Lebanese officials are expected to continue discussions later this month in pursuit of a broader and more durable agreement.