Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire in Lebanon on Friday after a deadly escalation that threatened wider diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, according to media reports.
The truce came into effect shortly before 4 p.m. local time following mediation by the United States and Qatar, with assistance from Iran. A senior US official said both sides had agreed to halt hostilities after a day of intense fighting.
At least 18 people were reported killed in Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon, while four Israeli soldiers died in attacks attributed to Hezbollah. The violence raised concerns that tensions along Israel’s northern border could undermine broader regional diplomacy involving Washington and Tehran.
The ceasefire is being viewed as a significant step towards preserving negotiations aimed at easing regional tensions. Planned talks between the United States and Iran in Switzerland were cancelled amid the escalation, creating uncertainty over discussions linked to regional security and maritime stability.
A senior Hezbollah lawmaker said Iran had informed the group that discussions with the United States could not proceed without a comprehensive ceasefire in Lebanon.
Meanwhile, Israeli military spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin said Israeli forces retained operational freedom to respond to threats despite the ceasefire. He said troops continued operations in parts of southern Lebanon targeting what Israel described as Hezbollah military infrastructure.
Defrin also accused Hezbollah of attempting to protect military assets and said Israeli forces would continue acting against perceived security threats.
The ceasefire will be closely watched amid hopes it could help sustain wider diplomatic efforts across the region.
