JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group reached an agreement on Friday to cease heavy fighting in southern Lebanon, which had threatened an interim agreement between the United States and Iran aimed at ending their conflict. Neither party confirmed the truce immediately. The fighting had resulted in the deaths of 47 people in Lebanon and four Israeli soldiers.
Hezbollah began firing rockets and drones at northern Israel, prompting Israel to seize territory in southern Lebanon. The interim agreement to end the Iran conflict has reopened the Strait of Hormuz, which had been closed by Iran, impacting global oil and natural gas supplies. The deal also aims to restart discussions on Iran's nuclear program, a central issue that led to the conflict's escalation on February 28.
The agreement includes provisions for halting military operations in Lebanon and respecting its sovereignty, although neither Israel nor Hezbollah are signatories to the deal. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces would remain in southern Lebanon until the threat is neutralized, while Hezbollah has demanded Israel's withdrawal as a condition for stopping its attacks.
Despite reports of a truce, artillery fire was still reported along the Lebanese border, and explosions were observed in Lebanon. The truce efforts were mediated by Qatar, the U.S., and Iran, according to regional officials who spoke anonymously. A Hezbollah official indicated that an announcement regarding the cessation of hostilities could be forthcoming.
Netanyahu's office did not provide immediate comments, but he noted on social media that Israeli forces had targeted 150 Hezbollah positions, resulting in significant militant casualties. Military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin confirmed that operations were ongoing in a designated defense zone.
Iranian officials did not attend planned talks in Switzerland, citing the need for a cessation of fighting in Lebanon before negotiations could proceed. U.S. Vice President JD Vance also postponed his trip. Future discussions aim to establish a permanent resolution to the conflict.
The Israeli military reported the deaths of four soldiers due to an attack on a tank near Nabatiyeh, with additional injuries from a drone strike. In response, Israel conducted airstrikes on Hezbollah infrastructure in various locations, accusing the group of violating the ceasefire. Hezbollah claimed its actions were retaliatory against Israeli violations.
The ongoing conflict has forced many families in southern Lebanon to evacuate their homes, with residents describing the situation as chaotic and unsafe.