US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday announced a framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon following several days of talks in Washington.

"We are happy to announce a framework agreement between the sovereign government of Lebanon and, of course, the government of Israel, with a mediation and support of the United States of America," Rubio said at the signing ceremony.

He added that the agreement "begins to put in place a framework for lasting peace and security."

The US-mediated talks aimed at ending the fighting between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah militants.

Lebanese officials began direct talks with Israel in Washington in April.

Source: www.dw.com