Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Revived? 3 World Leaders Make Key Claims After Lebanon Strikes

Israel and Hezbollah reportedly renew ceasefire after Lebanon strikes disrupted US-Iran talks, raising hopes for regional stability.

By Pranjal Gupta

New Delhi, June 19: Israel and the Hezbollah militant group agreed on Friday to renew their ceasefire after fresh violence in Lebanon threatened to derail wider diplomatic efforts in the region, according to two regional officials and a U.S. official. The ceasefire was reportedly mediated by Qatar, the United States, and Iran. Neither Israel nor Hezbollah immediately commented on the agreement.

The development came after overnight Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon reportedly killed 18 civilians. Israel, which claimed responsibility for the attacks, said its operations also killed four militants, including a lieutenant colonel. The Israeli military also carried out strikes in Lebanon's eastern Bekaa Valley on Friday.

Smoke rises over southern Lebanon as mediators push for a renewed ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. (AI-Generated Image)

The renewed fighting had a direct impact on planned talks between Iran and the United States in Switzerland. The negotiations, which were scheduled for Friday and expected to be attended by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, were postponed as tensions escalated in Lebanon.

Regional officials said mediators are now working to reschedule the talks, which are considered important for reaching a permanent settlement to the Iran conflict. The recent violence raised concerns that the broader peace process could fall apart.

The ceasefire agreement calls for an immediate halt to military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon. It is also intended to protect Lebanon's territorial integrity and sovereignty. Continued clashes between Israel and Hezbollah risk undermining these efforts.

Vance Delays Switzerland Visit

Vice President JD Vance postponed his planned trip to Switzerland on Thursday. The White House said the decision was due to logistical issues.

However, regional officials told The Associated Press that mediators were focused on reducing tensions in Lebanon. One official said Iran withdrew from the Switzerland talks because of the renewed violence and comments made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which Tehran viewed as a violation of the interim agreement with the United States.

The Switzerland talks were expected to focus on key issues such as sanctions relief, maritime security, nuclear-related measures, verification mechanisms, and regional security assurances. Officials believe progress on these issues is necessary to secure a long-term agreement between Iran and the United States.

(With Inputs from news agency AP)