Arabic version: وقف إطلاق النار في لبنان يثير الأمل في محادثات أمريكية إيرانية

Celebrations have been reported in Lebanon after a 10-day ceasefire took effect, paving the way for talks between Israeli and Lebanese officials on a longer-term deal, according to Al Jazeera. United States President Donald Trump has said an agreement to end the war on Iran is “very close,” with the next round of talks possibly this weekend in Islamabad. Tehran-based analyst Abas Aslani said US-Iran talks have advanced, but key differences persist, with both sides preparing for either a negotiated deal or a return to war.

In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has described the truce as a chance for a “historic peace agreement” with Lebanon, though he maintained that the disarmament of Hezbollah is a prerequisite. However, an Israeli strike on the southern Lebanese town of Ghaziyeh has killed at least seven people and wounded 33, just hours before the ceasefire took effect.

The ceasefire’s fragility is highlighted by concerns among Lebanese residents, who fear that while Israel demands Hezbollah’s disarmament, it has yet to withdraw from southern Lebanon. This core disagreement poses a significant challenge to the longevity of the truce, with many in Israel feeling betrayed by unmet promises of absolute victory in the conflict.