The Iran-backed group Hezbollah has halted attacks on northern Israel and Israeli forces in Lebanon as part of a broader ceasefire linked to the U.S.-Iran agreement, according to sources.
However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the truce does not apply to Lebanon, with Israeli forces continuing military operations against Hezbollah targets. Israel’s military reaffirmed that “the battle in Lebanon continues,” maintaining evacuation orders across large parts of southern Lebanon.
The situation highlights conflicting interpretations of the ceasefire brokered with the involvement of Shehbaz Sharif, who had indicated that Lebanon would be included in the agreement.
Despite Hezbollah’s pause in attacks, violence persisted on the ground. Lebanese state media reported ongoing Israeli airstrikes and shelling in southern regions, including a deadly strike near a hospital. Additional attacks in the southern city of Sidon reportedly killed and injured several civilians.
A Hezbollah lawmaker warned that the group’s restraint depends on Israel’s actions. “If the Israeli enemy does not adhere to a ceasefire, then no party will commit to it,” he said, hinting at possible escalation involving regional actors, including Iran.
The humanitarian situation in Lebanon continues to deteriorate. Authorities say over 1.2 million people have been displaced, while widespread destruction and economic collapse deepen the crisis. Civilians expressed growing desperation, with many hoping for a broader ceasefire to include Lebanon.
French President Emmanuel Macron called the situation “critical” and urged that Lebanon be included in ceasefire arrangements.
Lebanese officials stated they were not part of the negotiations and have received no formal guarantees regarding their country’s inclusion in the truce. Meanwhile, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun reiterated efforts to ensure Lebanon becomes part of any long-term regional peace deal.
The developments underscore the fragile and limited nature of the current ceasefire, with key issues unresolved and the risk of renewed escalation remaining high.
.png)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)