U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that Hezbollah and Israel have mutually agreed to cease all hostilities, a move that could prevent the collapse of peace talks with Iran. However, attacks from both sides continued shortly after the announcement, casting doubt on the ceasefire.
Trump's Truth Social Post
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated he spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hezbollah representatives, both of whom agreed that 'all shooting will stop.' He wrote, 'Israel will not attack them, and they will not attack Israel.' Despite this, subsequent military actions from both parties undermined the declaration.
Ongoing Conflict in Lebanon
Lebanon's civil defense agency reported that six bodies were recovered and three injured were rescued from a residential building in southern Lebanon struck by Israel. The building in Marwaniyah, Sidon district, was targeted in an attack that prompted search and rescue operations. The injured were taken to hospital for treatment.
Additionally, two Lebanese soldiers were moderately injured by an Israeli drone strike on a road near Nabatiyeh, according to the Lebanese Armed Forces.
Iran's Stance on Negotiations
Iranian officials are still reviewing the latest draft agreement with the U.S. and have not yet responded, a source told Iran's Mehr News agency. The source stated, 'The United States is concerned about war; we are concerned about an agreement. Based on previous experiences, Iran is seeking tangible and real benefits.' Reports from Tasnim news agency indicated that Iran suspended indirect negotiations with the U.S., though it remains unclear if and when Iranian negotiators will reply through Pakistani mediators.
Trump claimed on Monday that negotiations were continuing 'at a rapid pace.'
Iran Demands Frozen Funds
Iran is demanding the immediate release of $12 billion in frozen funds once an interim peace agreement is signed, according to Fars news agency. Journalist Saeed Ajorlu reported that if Iran senses any disruption in accessing the funds, it could withdraw from the agreement. Qatar has reportedly committed to acting as a guarantor, though Qatar denied offering $12 billion to Iran.
Ceasefire Details and Reactions
Trump's announcement included that no troops would enter Beirut and that any troops en route had been turned back. Lebanon's presidency noted the proposed agreement would see Israel avoid striking Beirut's southern suburbs if Hezbollah refrained from attacks. However, Hezbollah MP Hassan Fadlallah rejected a partial truce, and Netanyahu stated on social media that he told Trump Israel would attack Beirut if Hezbollah did not stop its attacks.
The conflict in the Middle East has now entered its 95th day, with no definitive end in sight despite the ceasefire claims.
