DUBAI: Israel and Lebanon have agreed to implement a ceasefire, raising hopes for a wider agreement aimed at ending the ongoing conflict involving Iran, according to U.S. officials.
The ceasefire, facilitated by the United States, is conditional on a complete halt in hostilities and the withdrawal of Hezbollah fighters from southern Lebanon. Although a similar agreement was reached last month, fighting had continued until now.
Tensions remain high across the region. Iran has carried out attacks in the Gulf, including a strike in Kuwait that damaged airport facilities and injured more than 60 people. However, Iranian officials denied targeting the airport, blaming the damage on U.S. interception systems. The United States rejected this claim, stating that Iranian drones deliberately targeted the site.
Meanwhile, U.S. forces conducted defensive strikes in southern Iran, including operations near the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route. The strait remains largely closed, contributing to rising oil prices and global market instability.
Despite the ceasefire, clashes continue sporadically. Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon reportedly killed several people, while Hezbollah has continued launching attacks across the border.
Diplomatic efforts are ongoing. U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that progress in negotiations with Iran could be made soon, possibly within days. Iran has linked any broader agreement to an end to regional hostilities and is seeking sanctions relief and access to oil revenues.
The conflict, which began earlier this year, has resulted in thousands of casualties and significant disruption to global energy supplies, highlighting the urgency of a comprehensive peace agreement.–Reuters
