At least 18 people were killed in southern Lebanon following intense overnight Israeli airstrikes, while the Israel Defense Forces confirmed four soldiers died in combat. The violence erupted just one day after the United States and Iran signed a comprehensive deal aimed at permanently ending hostilities in the region.
The Israel Defense Forces stated it targeted Hezbollah militants and infrastructure, insisting its operations remain separate from the broader US-Iran agreement. Conversely, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for ambushing Israeli troops and destroying three tanks with guided missiles. This escalation casts immediate doubt on the truce, which mandates a cessation of hostilities and respect for Lebanese sovereignty.
Political friction is mounting between Washington and Jerusalem regarding the conflict's trajectory. Vice President JD Vance publicly criticized hardline Israeli cabinet members, warning that military force alone cannot solve national security challenges. Meanwhile, Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir rejected external pressure, declaring that citizen security is non-negotiable despite American diplomatic efforts.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has urged the US to enforce compliance with the new agreement. With over 3,700 fatalities recorded in Lebanon since the conflict began, the divergence between diplomatic accords and ground realities presents a critical test for the 60-day settlement timeline established by the US-Iran pact.