Israel and the militant group Hezbollah have agreed to a ceasefire in Lebanon, a US official said on Friday, after renewed hostilities threatened broader Middle East peace talks. The ceasefire took effect at around 4:00 PM local time in Lebanon, according to the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Ceasefire Details and Mediation
“We understand that after the exchange of fire earlier today, Israel and Hezbollah are now in a ceasefire,” the official said. Negotiators from the United States and Qatar played a key role in brokering the agreement, with assistance from Iran.
Before the truce, clashes escalated sharply. Reports indicate 18 people were killed in airstrikes in Lebanon, while four Israeli soldiers died in Hezbollah offensives.
Impact on US-Iran Talks
The violence in Lebanon prompted the cancellation of planned US-Iran talks in Switzerland on Friday. Those negotiations were considered crucial for ensuring the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil trade route.
A senior Hezbollah lawmaker said Iran had informed the group that talks with the US could not proceed without a comprehensive ceasefire in Lebanon. Meanwhile, an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson did not directly address the canceled talks but stated that the US bears direct responsibility for Israeli attacks in Lebanon. Tehran is ready to take all necessary steps to protect its interests, the spokesperson added.
