Source: Fox News
Summary
A U.S.-backed ceasefire between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah was set to take effect on Friday afternoon. The agreement came after negotiations between the U.S. and Iran scheduled to take place in Switzerland were abruptly postponed. The Israel–Hezbollah ceasefire was set to take effect at 9 a.m. Eastern Time/4 p.m. local time, but whether it formally took effect remains disputed. Hezbollah said it would abide by the ceasefire if Israel does, but “reserves the right to respond” to any violation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted a video showing Israel Defense Forces striking Hezbollah targets in Lebanon.
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As expected, the matter has reached another stage.
Negotiations between the U.S. and Iran were postponed, and a ceasefire agreement was reached. The agreement includes a 60-day framework for negotiations toward a final agreement focused on Iran’s nuclear program. U.S. officials have said any U.S. force withdrawal from areas near Iran would be tied to a final deal, not required immediately under the initial agreement. The agreement also declared the “immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon.”
Hezbollah said it would abide by the ceasefire, but “reserves the right to respond” to any violation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted a video showing Israel Defense Forces striking Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. The ceasefire agreement was set to take effect, but its formal start remains disputed.
And so, the familiar dance continues.
Author: Evan Null
