'Cease-fire' officially comes into effect in Lebanon | LIVE

Cease-fire between Israel and Lebanon: Berlin hopes for ‘future as good neighbours’

Germany hopes for a "future as good neighbours" following the announcement of a cease-fire between Lebanon and Israel, including Hezbollah, its foreign minister has said.

The ten-day truce with immediate effect announced by Donald Trump “may offer the people on both sides of the border a significant respite,” Johann Wadephul said in a statement.

The direct negotiations launched on Tuesday in Washington, the first of their kind since 1993, “open up the prospect of a future as good neighbours” provided that “two requirements are taken into account: Israel’s legitimate security interests and Lebanon’s right to territorial integrity and sovereignty,” he emphasized.

Both sides must now work towards agreements “on securing the border, protecting civilians on both sides of the Blue Line, and ensuring the safety of UNIFIL peacekeepers,” he explained

“Lasting security in the region will only be possible with the effective disarmament of Hezbollah,” Berlin added, noting that it is now up to the Lebanese government “to implement this effectively.”

Wadephul “thanks the United States for its commitment as a mediator, particularly in recent days."

Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon and Hezbollah rocket fire on northern Israel ahead of cease-fire

One hour before the cease-fire between Israel and Lebanon came into effect, the Israeli army bombed several towns in southern Lebanon: Kafra (Bint Jbeil), Deir Qanoun Ras al-Ain (Sour), Debbine (Marjayoun), as well as Loubirh, Ansarieh and Deir Taqla (Saida). A strike also targeted Yohmor in the Western Bekaa.

Hezbollah, for its part, announced that it had targeted Nahariya with rocket salvos, as well as Israeli military infrastructure in Karmiel in northern Israel.

Iran welcomes the Israel-Lebanon cease-fire, describing it as part of 'broader understanding between Tehran and Washington, brokered by Pakistan”

Iran has welcomed the cease-fire between Israel and Lebanon, stating that this agreement forms part of “a broader framework of understanding between Tehran and Washington, brokered by Pakistan,” Reuters reports, citing an Iranian media outlet.

A spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that “Tehran supports the cessation of hostilities,” whilst emphasising the need for a “complete withdrawal of the Israeli army from southern Lebanon.”

Cease-fire: UAE welcomes agreement and expresses solidarity with Lebanese government

The United Arab Emirates has welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement regarding the conclusion of a cease-fire agreement between Lebanon and Israel, stating that the U.S. President’s diplomatic efforts had helped to facilitate the agreement.

In a statement reported by the Emirati news agency WAM, the Foreign Affairs Ministry expressed its hope that this agreement would constitute “a positive step towards strengthening an environment conducive to regional stability.”

Abu Dhabi also reaffirmed its “full solidarity with the Lebanese government,” as well as its support for efforts aimed at “restricting weapons to state institutions alone and dismantling terrorist organizations,” noting that this approach constitutes “a key step in strengthening national security and stability.”

Finally, the Emirates reiterated their commitment to “the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon.”

Israel: 1 person seriously injured after rocket fire from Lebanon

One person has been seriously injured in northern Israel following rocket fire from Lebanon less than two hours before the ceasefire came into effect, according to the emergency services.

In the Carmel area, emergency crews are “providing medical treatment to a man aged around 25, in a serious condition, apparently injured by shrapnel [following an] interception,” according to a statement from Magen David Adom (MDA), the Israeli equivalent of the Red Cross. The area was subject to a rocket alert, according to the civil defence authorities.

Latest developments in southern Lebanon, according to reports from our correspondent in the region

• In the district of Sour, an Israeli strike targeted Hanieh and Samayeh, where a first-aid post run by the Islamic Health Committee was hit, leaving six paramedics injured, one of whom is in a critical condition.
• In the district of Marjayoun, Israel fired flares over Wadi Qays, in Khiam.
• In the district of Nabatieh, artillery fire targeted the outskirts of Jabal al-Ahmar, in Harouf, killing one person. An airstrike targeted Qaaqaiyat al-Jisr.
• In the district of Saida, three people were pulled alive from the rubble following a strike on a building between Kfar Hatta and Kfar Melki, whilst four others remain trapped there. Rescue teams are continuing their operations to bring them to safety, the chairman of the Kfar Melki Municipal Council told L’Orient-Le Jour.
• An Israeli strike on Adloun killed three people, including two women, and injured 21, according to the Health Ministry. Also in the Saida district, Israel targeted Zrarieh earlier in the day, killing 12 people, including three Syrian nationals.
• In the district of Hasbaya, the Israeli army fired flares over Kfar Shuba and bombed Shabaa.

Cease-fire: Hezbollah calls on residents to avoid targeted areas and to remain patient

Hezbollah states that, following the announcement of the cease-fire and in the face of “a treacherous enemy accustomed to violating its commitments and agreements,” it is calling on residents to “remain patient and not to travel to the targeted areas in the South, the Bekaa, and the southern suburbs of Beirut until the situation has been fully clarified."

The movement says it understands “the desire to return to the villages,” but calls for caution “for the sake of safety."

“You will return, God willing, to your villages with your heads held high, as you have always done,” the statement concludes.

Cease-fire agreement: Lebanon pledges to prevent any Hezbollah attacks on Israel, according to US statement

Lebanon has pledged to take “concrete measures” to prevent any Hezbollah attacks on Israel as part of the cease-fire between the two countries, which is due to come into effect in a few hours, the U.S. State Department said in a statement.

“From April 16, 2026, at 17:00 [Washington time] and with the support of the international community, the Lebanese government will take concrete measures to prevent Hezbollah and all other non-state armed rebel groups present on Lebanese territory from carrying out attacks, operations or hostile activities against Israeli targets,” according to the text, which adds that Israel, for its part, “reserves the right to take, at any time, all necessary measures in self-defence.”

Cease-fire: Hajjar calls on security forces to step up security measures

The Interior Minister, Ahmad Hajjar, held a video conference with the governors and met with the Director General of the Internal Security Forces, Raed Abdallah, to discuss the measures and arrangements required to support the cease-fire agreement.

He called for the necessary measures to be taken to ensure security and manage traffic across all regions of Lebanon, emphasizing “the need to assist residents and stand by them during this phase”. The minister also stressed “the importance of maintaining the highest level of readiness and ensuring full coordination with the Lebanese Army”.

Cease-fire in Lebanon: 'excellent news,' says President of the European Council

"The 10-day cease-fire between Israel and Lebanon is excellent news. It must now be implemented and verified on the ground," wrote Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, on X.

He added that “it is essential that Israel and Lebanon engage in constructive negotiations leading to concrete results, in the interests of their populations and with a view to lasting peace."

He also gave an assurance that “the European Union will continue to support Lebanon.” Finally, he stated that “giving the authorities the means to disarm Hezbollah is the only sustainable solution for restoring stability in Lebanon.”

Cease-fire in Lebanon: Riyadh praises 'significant positive role' of Lebanese leadership

The Saudi Foreign Affairs Ministry expressed in a statement its “satisfaction at U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a cease-fire in brotherly Lebanon,” praising the “important positive role” played by President Joseph Aoun, the government led by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri.

The Kingdom also reaffirmed “its support for the Lebanese state in its efforts to establish its sovereignty and ensure that the monopoly on arms remains in the hands of its legitimate institutions."

It further expressed its support for the reforms underway and for initiatives aimed at preserving Lebanon’s resources, as well as the security and integrity of its territory.

Greek Prime Minister contacts Lebanese President

The Lebanese Presidency has stated that the Lebanese President received a telephone call from the Greek Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who congratulated him on the success of the efforts made to achieve a ceasefire in Lebanon.

Mitsotakis expressed the hope that “this would mark the beginning of a new phase in which stability would be strengthened in Lebanon and the authority of the state extended across its entire territory thanks to the Lebanese army and security forces.”

Aoun, for his part, stated that the “negotiation process in accordance with the initiative he had announced, the first stage of which began today, namely the cease-fire,” was continuing.

Lebanon-Israel: UN calls for 'permanent cease-fire and lasting solution to the conflict'

The spokesperson for the U.N. Secretary-General, Stephane Dujarric, welcomed during his press briefing “any measure likely to bring an end to hostilities and suffering on both sides of the Blue Line.”

He added that the United Nations, through its political and peacekeeping missions, “remains ready to support these efforts and continues to call for the full implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701, with a view to a permanent ceasefire and a lasting solution to the conflict.”

“As we have always maintained, there is no military solution to the conflict,” he reiterated.

He also noted that the situation in Lebanon continues to deteriorate, pointing out that more than a million people have been displaced. Finally, he stressed that “today’s strike on the Qasmieh bridge, a vital route to Sour, has further isolated areas south of the Litani River, affecting more than 106,000 people.”

Trump claims Iran has agreed to hand over its enriched uranium

Donald Trump has stated that Iran has agreed to hand over its enriched uranium, one of the U.S.’s demands for reaching an agreement with Tehran. “They have agreed to hand over the nuclear dust to us,” the U.S. president told reporters at the White House, using the term he employs to refer to stocks of enriched uranium, adding: “There is a very good chance that we will reach an agreement.”

Netanyahu and Aoun to visit the White House 'in the next four or five days,' Trump announces

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun will visit the White House for a joint meeting with Donald Trump “in the next four or five days,” the U.S. president has said.

“This will be the first time they have met in 44 years, which is not exactly good neighbourliness, given that they are neighbors,” Donald Trump quipped to the press at the White House.

Cease-fire in Lebanon: Washington suggests a possible extension and reaffirms Israel’s right to ‘self-defence’

The U.S. State Department has indicated that the initial ten-day cease-fire between Lebanon and Israel could be "extended" through a mutual agreement between the two parties, should there be "progress in the negotiations." It also stated that Israel would retain the right to take, at any time, “all necessary measures” to ensure “its self-defence against planned, imminent or ongoing attacks."

Israeli airstrike on Sohmor in the Western Bekaa

An Israeli airstrike has hit Sohmor in the Western Bekaa, where two strikes targeted the al-Amana petrol station – affiliated with Hezbollah – without causing any casualties, reports our correspondent in the region, Sarah Abdallah.

Cease-fire: Lebanese Army urges residents of the South to postpone return ‘until the agreement comes into force’

The Lebanese Army has urged citizens via X to "postpone their return to villages and towns in the South until the cease-fire agreement comes into force."

It also urges people not to approach areas where the Israeli army has infiltrated and stresses “the need to follow the instructions of the deployed military units to ensure the safety of citizens, as well as to exercise caution regarding unexploded ordnance and suspicious objects left over from the Israeli aggression."

Israeli strikes continue in southern Lebanon, reports our correspondent

• In the Nabatieh district, Israeli strikes have targeted Hama, Arnoun, Adsheet, Jibsheet, Zawtar Sharqieh, and Mayfadoun. A drone strike also targeted a car in Zifta, injuring one person.
• In the district of Sour, Israeli strikes and artillery fire targeted Jwayya. Air strikes also targeted Baflieh and the outskirts of Debaal.
• In the district of Marjayoun, at least 17 artillery shells were fired towards the Jalahieh neighborhood, north-east of Khiam. Air strikes also hit the outskirts of Deir Zahrani and the village of Debbine, which was targeted on several occasions.
• In the district of Hasbaya, an Israeli strike targeted the area between Kfar Hamam and Kfar Shuba, whilst another hit the outskirts of Shebaa (Bayader).

Latest developments in southern Lebanon: Israeli strike on Ghazieh kills 7 people and injures 33

In the district of Saida, the Israeli strike on a building in Ghazieh caused extensive damage and erupted a fire.

A preliminary report from the Health Ministry puts the death toll at seven and the number of injured at 33, whilst rescue teams continue their operations. The chairman of the local municipal council, Hassan Ghaddar, told L'Orient Today that the attack targeted a residential building and a warehouse.

Plasschaert welcomes cease-fire 'so that negotiations can determine the way forward'

The U.N. Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, welcomed on X “a 10-day ceasefire, negotiated by the United States, to allow negotiations, rather than the battlefield, to determine the way forward”. She stated that this is an “important step towards breaking the cycle of conflict that has lasted far too long”. “Lasting stability for all must be the common goal,” she concluded.

Cease-fire in Lebanon: Samy Gemayel praises president and ‘Lebanese diplomacy’

The leader of the Kataeb Party, Samy Gemayel, took to X to congratulate the Lebanese president on the cease-fire in Lebanon. He also praised “Lebanese diplomacy for saving Lebanon from the war provoked by the Hezbollah militia."

“Today marks the beginning of Lebanon taking back control of its decisions and its future,” he added.

'We have the opportunity to reach a historic agreement with Lebanon,' says Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said following Donald Trump’s announcement of a cease-fire in Lebanon: “We have the opportunity to reach a historic agreement with Lebanon.” “I have agreed to a temporary ten-day ceasefire with Lebanon,” he added. “Our main demand is that Hezbollah be dismantled.”

The cease-fire between Lebanon and Israel "will include Hezbollah," says Trump.

Plasschaert welcomes cease-fire 'so that negotiations can determine the way forward'

The U.N. Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, welcomed on X “a 10-day ceasefire, negotiated by the United States, to allow negotiations, rather than the battlefield, to determine the way forward”. She stated that this is an “important step towards breaking the cycle of conflict that has lasted far too long”. “Lasting stability for all must be the common goal,” she concluded.

Cease-fire in Lebanon: Samy Gemayel praises president and ‘Lebanese diplomacy’

The leader of the Kataeb Party, Samy Gemayel, took to X to congratulate the Lebanese president on the cease-fire in Lebanon. He also praised “Lebanese diplomacy for saving Lebanon from the war provoked by the Hezbollah militia."

“Today marks the beginning of Lebanon taking back control of its decisions and its future,” he added.

'We have the opportunity to reach a historic agreement with Lebanon,' says Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said following Donald Trump’s announcement of a cease-fire in Lebanon: “We have the opportunity to reach a historic agreement with Lebanon.” “I have agreed to a temporary ten-day ceasefire with Lebanon,” he added. “Our main demand is that Hezbollah be dismantled.”

The cease-fire between Lebanon and Israel "will include Hezbollah," says Trump.

Plasschaert welcomes cease-fire 'so that negotiations can determine the way forward'

The U.N. Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, welcomed on X “a 10-day ceasefire, negotiated by the United States, to allow negotiations, rather than the battlefield, to determine the way forward”. She stated that this is an “important step towards breaking the cycle of conflict that has lasted far too long”. “Lasting stability for all must be the common goal,” she concluded.

Cease-fire in Lebanon: Samy Gemayel praises president and ‘Lebanese diplomacy’

The leader of the Kataeb Party, Samy Gemayel, took to X to congratulate the Lebanese president on the cease-fire in Lebanon. He also praised “Lebanese diplomacy for saving Lebanon from the war provoked by the Hezbollah militia."

“Today marks the beginning of Lebanon taking back control of its decisions and its future,” he added.

'We have the opportunity to reach a historic agreement with Lebanon,' says Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said following Donald Trump’s announcement of a cease-fire in Lebanon: “We have the opportunity to reach a historic agreement with Lebanon.” “I have agreed to a temporary ten-day ceasefire with Lebanon,” he added. “Our main demand is that Hezbollah be dismantled.”

Plasschaert welcomes cease-fire 'so that negotiations can determine the way forward'

The U.N. Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, welcomed on X “a 10-day ceasefire, negotiated by the United States, to allow negotiations, rather than the battlefield, to determine the way forward”. She stated that this is an “important step towards breaking the cycle of conflict that has lasted far too long”. “Lasting stability for all must be the common goal,” she concluded.

Cease-fire in Lebanon: Samy Gemayel praises president and ‘Lebanese diplomacy’

The leader of the Kataeb Party, Samy Gemayel, took to X to congratulate the Lebanese president on the cease-fire in Lebanon. He also praised “Lebanese diplomacy for saving Lebanon from the war provoked by the Hezbollah militia."

“Today marks the beginning of Lebanon taking back control of its decisions and its future,” he added.

Berri calls on displaced people to ‘postpone return to towns and villages’

The Speaker of Parliament and leader of Amal, Nabih Berri, issued a statement calling on the one million displaced people to "exercise restraint before returning to their towns and villages, until the situation and developments have been clarified, in accordance with the cease-fire agreement."

“We call on you to make the preservation of security and human life an absolute priority, as this constitutes the most sincere loyalty to the land,” he wrote to the inhabitants of “the South, the Bekaa, and the southern suburbs” of Beirut.

Hezbollah insists that cease-fire must not allow Israel freedom of movement in Lebanon

Hezbollah has stated that the presence of Israeli troops on Lebanese territory would give Lebanon and its people “the right to resist,” adding, in its initial response to a proposed truce, that any cease-fire must not allow Israel freedom of movement within Lebanon.

Bilal Abdallah reaffirms his confidence in Aoun, 'whose initiative has led to a cease-fire'

Contacted following the announcement of a cease-fire in Lebanon, Bilal Abdallah, a Jumblattist Chouf MP, reiterated via L’Orient-Le Jour his confidence in the President, “whose initiative led to a cease-fire,” emphasizing the importance of preserving national unity in order to strengthen the position of the Lebanese negotiators.

As for the next stage of the process, the Abdallah felt that it should be discussed in the Cabinet.

Hezbollah continues its attacks on Israeli positions in southern Lebanon and northern Israel

Hezbollah claims to have targeted, between 2.30 pm and 3 pm, a gathering of Israeli soldiers and vehicles on Salaa Hill, in Qantara, and near Khiam prison (Marjayoun). The party also states that, at 5 pm, it targeted Israeli artillery positions recently established in Bayyada (Sour).

Furthermore, Hezbollah claims to have launched a drone attack at 4 pm on the Shraga base — located approximately 37 km from Lebanon’s southern border — north of Acca, which is reportedly the “administrative headquarters of the Golani Brigade.” It also claimed responsibility for an attack on the naval officers’ school in Acca Bay, carried out with rocket salvos.

Finally, several towns in northern Israel were targeted by rocket fire, notably Shlomi (opposite Labbouneh, Marjayoun), Kiryat Shmona (opposite Houla, Marjayoun), Yiron (opposite Maroun al-Ras, Bint Jbeil), as well as Acca and Ya’ara.

Hezbollah says it will respect cease-fire if Israel stops its attacks

Hezbollah will respect the cease-fire, which comes into effect at midnight Beirut time, provided that Israel completely ceases hostilities, including targeted killings of its members, MP Ibrahim Moussaoui told AFP. “We will respect the cease-fire cautiously ... provided there is a complete cessation of hostilities against us and that Israel does not exploit it to carry out assassinations,” he said.

Following the cease-fire that ended the previous war between the two parties in November 2024, Israel had continued to target Hezbollah members and infrastructure, as well as civilians.

Cease-fire: Lebanese Forces call on state to take action on Hezbollah disarmament

The spokesperson for the Lebanese Forces, Charles Jabbour, told L'Orient-Le Jour that the ten-day cease-fire announced on Thursday should be used to enable the state to “fulfill its duty” regarding the disarmament of Hezbollah.

When asked whether President Joseph Aoun should agree to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, as suggested by Donald Trump, Jabbour replied that such a move “should be the culmination of a whole process of negotiations.”

Netanyahu tells security cabinet Israeli army will not withdraw from southern Lebanon during cease-fire, according to media outlets

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has told the Israeli Security Cabinet that the Israeli army will not withdraw from southern Lebanon during the cease-fire, according to several media outlets. “We will remain in the 'security zone' during the cease-fire. Where we are, we will stay,” he said, according to Israel’s Channel 12. Regarding the cease-fire, he stated that U.S. President Donald “Trump requested it, and we have interests with the United States,” according to KAN radio. “Trump imposed this cease-fire,” a senior Israeli official also told Axios.

Netanyahu convened an “emergency” conference call with members of the Israeli security cabinet just minutes after the Trump announcement to discuss the cease-fire, according to Israeli media reports cited by The Times of Israel. According to these media outlets, the ministers were only notified five minutes before the call and reportedly expressed their anger at having learnt of the cease-fire through the media, without having been consulted or asked for their views.

Cease-fire in Lebanon: Élysée hails ‘excellent news’, responds to Israel on France’s role

The Élysée Palace has welcomed the announcement of a ten-day cease-fire in Lebanon, whilst stressing that it must be verified "on the ground."

“This is excellent news that will need to be verified on the ground,” said an adviser to President Emmanuel Macron. Donald Trump had announced earlier that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to a ten-day cease-fire.

Responding to comments by the Israeli ambassador to the United States, who claimed that Paris had no business getting involved in negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, he added that Paris wanted to “play a constructive role.”

“On the day when it becomes necessary to support the Lebanese authorities in restoring security and their sovereignty over the whole of Lebanese territory, I believe many will be glad to be able to count on France, including the Israelis,” commented the presidential adviser.

Lapid slams Lebanon cease-fire

Israel’s opposition leader Yair Lapid has strongly criticized the cease-fire in Lebanon, arguing that the Netanyahu government’s "promises" are "crashing against reality," and pledging to achieve the war’s objectives after the elections.

“The conflict in Lebanon can only end in one way: by permanently eliminating the threat hanging over the northern communities,” Lapid wrote on X. “That will not happen with this government — we will do it with the next government.”

Von der Leyen welcomes 10-day cease-fire between Israel and Lebanon

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, welcomed the ten-day cease-fire between Israel and Lebanon, announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, and reiterated that Europe would continue to call for respect for Lebanon’s territorial integrity.

Israeli air strikes on the district of Sour

Israeli air strikes have targeted Ain Baal, Burj al-Shamali, Hanieh, Qleileh, and Qaaqayiet al-Jisr in the district of Sour, according to our correspondent in southern Lebanon.

Israeli air strikes continue in southern Lebanon

The Israeli air force has carried out a series of air strikes on the town of Nabatieh, as well as on Kfar Dounin (Nabatieh).

Artillery fire also targeted the outskirts of Jabal al-Ahmar, in Harouf and Shukine, as well as the Jalahieh neighborhood, near Khiam secondary school (Marjayoun).

Further air strikes hit Erkay, Arnoun, Yohmor, Houmine (in the Iqlim el-Touffah district) and Ghazieh, south of Saida, near Qanaarit Hill (Saida). Israel also bombed Mahmoudieh, on the outskirts of Aishieh, as well as Rihan and Sojod, in the Jezzine district.

Israeli security official to Reuters: Israel has no intention of withdrawing from southern Lebanon

An Israeli security official quoted by Reuters says that the Israeli army has no intention of withdrawing its forces from southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah targets Acca, Kiryat Shmona, Shlomi and Yiron

• Hezbollah targeted the Shuraga base (the administrative headquarters of the Golani Brigade) north of of Acca, around 37 km from Lebanon’s southern border, with a swarm of precision drones. The party also targeted the Navy Officers' School in Acca Bay with a rocket salvo.
• The party targeted Kiryat Shmona, opposite Houla (Marjayoun), and Shlomi, opposite Labbouneh (Marjayoun), with rocket salvos.
• Hezbollah targeted Yiron, opposite Maroun al-Ras (Bint Jbeil) with a rocket salvo.

Airstrikes continue targeting towns in Nabatieh, Sour, and Saida

• A series of airstrikes targeted the locality of Nabatieh.
• An Israeli airstrike targeted the town of Qaaqayiet al-Jisr, Qleileh, and Hanieh (all located in Sour).
• Two airstrikes targeted the towns of Erkay (Saida), Arnoun, Yohmor, and artillery shelling targeted the outskirts of Jabal al-Ahmar in Harouf and Shoukin (all located in Nabatieh).

Haret Saida’s municipality warns people to avoid public gatherings in final hours before cease-fire

Haret Saida’s municipality issued a statement urging the “residents, guests, and those staying in Haret Saida to kindly evacuate public squares, gatherings, and cafés due to the dangerous situation and the targeting of gatherings by the Zionist enemy.”

Trump announces plans to invite Aoun and Netanyahu to White House 'for first meaningful talks between Israel and Lebanon since 1983'

After announcing the cease-fire in Lebanon, U.S. President Donald Trump said he intended to invite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to the White House, without specifying a date. The aim would be to hold “the first meaningful discussions between Israel and Lebanon since 1983, a very long time ago,” Trump wrote.

“Both sides want to see PEACE, and I think it will happen, quickly!” he concluded. Trump spoke with both leaders earlier in the day. Aoun refused to have direct contact with Mr Netanyahu.

Salam says cease-fire was 'key Lebanese demand' and 'main objective at meeting in Washington'

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam welcomed on X the announcement of the cease-fire declared by President Donald Trump. He stated that this was an “essential Lebanese demand that we have pursued since the first day of the war, and which was our main objective at the meeting in Washington on Tuesday.”

He congratulated all Lebanese people on this progress and paid tribute to the “fallen martyrs,” as well as to the wounded and those forced to leave their towns and villages.

“I would also like to thank all the regional and international efforts made to achieve this result, notably those of the United States, France, the countries of the European Union, as well as all our Arab brother nations, in particular the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Arab Republic of Egypt, as well as the State of Qatar and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan,” he added.

Intense Israeli air strikes in southern Lebanon, following the announcement of cease-fire in Lebanon

Following Trump’s announcement of a cease-fire in Lebanon, which is due to come into effect at midnight Beirut time, the Israeli army has carried out massive air strikes on several areas of southern Lebanon, reports our correspondent in the region. Missile explosions can be heard in Saida, whilst the fighter jets can be heard unabated.

Mayors in northern Israel warn of rocket fire from Hezbollah ahead of the cease-fire coming into effect

Mayors in northern Israel have warned of rocket fire from Hezbollah ahead of the cease-fire coming into effect, reports Haaretz.

Trump announces 10-day cease-fire in Lebanon starting midnight, Beirut time

Houthi leader says support for Hezbollah and the Lebanese people is ‘a necessity’

The Houthi leader, Abdel Malek al-Houthi, stated that support for Hezbollah and the Lebanese people is “a necessity,” adding that “it is impossible to turn a blind eye and remain silent in the face of the Israeli enemy,” in a televised address broadcast by the pro-Hezbollah Lebanese channel, al-Mayadeen.

The rebel leader further argued that Israel was carrying out a “major aggression against a key front of the jihad axis” in Lebanon, stressing that Lebanon should be included in the cease-fire between Iran and the United States, which came into effect on April 7 for an initial period of two weeks. According to him, the cease-fire is the “result of pressure imposed on the United States and Israel following their major failure to achieve their objectives,” arguing that one of the main aims of the Israeli-American offensive against the Islamic Republic of Iran was “to overthrow the Islamic regime and take control of the Iranian people.”

Jean-Noel Barrot stresses need for ‘coordination’ between Beirut and Tel Aviv to disarm Hezbollah

The French Foreign Minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, told the al-Arabiya channel that “the Lebanese state has the right to hold a monopoly on arms,” whilst stressing the need for “coordination between the Lebanese and Israeli governments with a view to disarming Hezbollah.”

He also considered that the Israeli strikes against Lebanon had “weakened” the cease-fire agreed between the United States and Iran.

Israeli air strikes continue on the districts of Sour and Bint Jbeil

Israel carried out an air strike between the villages of Qana and Ramadieh. Another strike also targeted Qana. Israeli warplanes also targeted the villages of Shaaitieh and Zibqine (Sour).

Two air strikes targeted Kfara (Bint Jbeil).

An Israeli drone crashed in the village of Hebbarieh (Hasbaya).

Israeli security source confirms cease-fire in Lebanon could come into effect this evening

An Israeli security source told Axios that a cease-fire in Lebanon could come into effect this evening. “We are at a crossroads. Nothing has been finalized yet, but it could happen today,” the source told journalist Barak Ravid.

Israeli airstrike kills five people and injures more than ten injured in Zrarieh, Saida

More than five people were killed in an Israeli strike on Zrarieh (Saida), with more than ten others injured, the chair of the municipal council, Zahra Mroueh, told our correspondent in southern Lebanon.

Rescue operations are ongoing amid the destruction.

Israel broke the sound barrier twice over parts of Lebanon

Israel broke the sound barrier twice over parts of Lebanon, according to local media reports.

Sirens sound in Haifa area as Hezbollah fires rocket barrage

Sirens sound in Haifa as Hezbollah fires rocket barrage, Haaretz reported.

Lebanon’s negotiations with Israel a ‘grave error’: Hezbollah official

The Lebanese government’s decision to hold direct negotiations with Israel has been a “grave error,” Hussein Hajj Hassan tells the AFP news agency.

Hassan said negotiations “serve no interest for the country” and urged authorities to halt “this series of useless concessions.”

Trump and Aoun reported to have participated in a joint "telephone conversation"

The Lebanese Presidency announced that “a telephone conversation took place this afternoon between U.S. President Donald Trump and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.”

Aoun thanked Trump for his efforts “to bring about a cease-fire in Lebanon and ensure peace and stability, as a prelude to the implementation of a peace process in the region.” “He expressed the hope that these efforts would continue in order to bring about a cessation of hostilities as soon as possible,” the presidency added.

For his part, “Trump reaffirmed his support for President Aoun and Lebanon, emphasizing his commitment to responding to the Lebanese request for a cease-fire as quickly as possible,” the statement also noted.

Call 1787 for any Information Regarding Missing Persons Connected to the April 8th Crimes

"The Health Ministry has issued a statement announcing that it has been receiving visits at a newly established office at Hariri Hospital in Bir Hassan from the families of the missing, including martyrs and the wounded, in Beirut and Mount Lebanon following the crimes committed by the Israeli enemy on Wednesday April 8.

In light of the fact that no new reports have been received, the Ministry announces that the office will cease operations, whilst the door remains open for the families of the missing who have not yet reported their cases to contact the hotline on 1787, so that their details can be recorded and the necessary follow-up carried out."

Health Ministry condemns Israel's deliberate targeting of paramedics

"The Ministry of Public Health’s Health Emergency Operations Center issued a statement announcing that the Israeli enemy had targeted ambulance crews in the town of Mayfadoun, in the Nabatieh district, on three consecutive occasions, resulting in the death of three paramedics and the injury of six others, with one paramedic still missing.

According to the details, an ambulance crew belonging to the Health Authority was targeted whilst attempting to rescue the injured, resulting in the death of one paramedic, whilst the second remains missing.

When a second ambulance from the Health Authority set out to rescue the paramedics, it was targeted, injuring three paramedics.

In a third rescue attempt, two ambulances from both the Al-Rissala Association and the Nabatieh Ambulance Service were dispatched, but they too were targeted, resulting in the death of two paramedics and the injury of three others.

The Health Ministry strongly condemns this heinous crime, which reflects the Israeli enemy’s determination to prevent paramedics from carrying out their rescue work in any way whatsoever, to the extent that they have become a target for the enemy, who relentlessly pursues them in a flagrant violation that confirms a disregard for all the norms and principles enshrined in international humanitarian law.

The Ministry calls upon international humanitarian organizations to work to put an end to this dangerous violation of the right of the wounded to be rescued and of the paramedic to be protected, in order to safeguard the human conscience and the authority of international law."

Islamic Health Authority ambulance targeted in Debbin

Series of Israeli strikes over Yohmor (Photo shared by our south Lebenon correspondent, Muntasser Abdallah)

An airstrike hit the town of Debbine (Marjayoun), targeting a Civil Defense ambulance, of the Islamic Health Authority affiliated with Hezbollah, with a drone missile near the Tibnin Hospital, causing injuries among paramedics, our correspondent in the south reported.

Israeli airstrikes, artillery shelling continue across southern Lebanon

Israel continues its air strikes across southern Lebanon, in what people describe as a "fire belt."

*Airstrikes target Arab Salim, Zawtar Sharqieh, Yohmor (Nabatieh), Saksakieh, and Zrarieh (both located in Saida). The airstrike on Zrarieh targeted a building and two houses, with injuries reported by local residents. Fire belts were reported in the area between Zawtar Sharqieh and Yohmor.

*An Israeli drone strike targeted the town of Deir Qanoun Ras al-Ain and casualties are being transported by ambulance teams. Artillery shelling also hit the Qasimieh plain (both located in Sour).

*Artillery shelling also hit the southern coast of Sour.

Israel's war on Lebanon: 2,196 people killed since March 2

According to the latest Health Ministry toll, the casualty figures from Israel's war on Lebanon stand at 2,196 people killed and 7,185 wounded since March 2.

Israel targets Qasmieh Bridge again: Lebanese Army reports destruction of infrastructure and one person killed

The Lebanese Army stated that the Israeli strike earlier today on the Qasmieh Bridge, which links Sour to the rest of Lebanon, destroyed it “with the aim of cutting off the southern Litani from its northern part and isolating it,” according to a message posted on X by the force.

It added that the attack killed one person and injured two, in addition to wounding a soldier from the unit deployed along the bridge. The army stated that it would ensure the bridge is repaired “as soon as possible.”

Joseph Aoun refuses ‘direct contact’ with Benjamin Netanyahu

President Joseph Aoun has refused "direct contact" with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reports AFP, citing an official source. U.S. President Donald Trump had announced earlier in the day that there would be contact between "Lebanese and Israeli leaders."

Shortly afterwards, the Israeli Minister for Science and Technology, Gila Gamliel-Demri, also stated that the Israeli Prime Minister would “speak with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.”

Israeli air strike on the central square of Zrarieh

Israel targeted a building and two houses, with residents reporting several injuries, according to our correspondent in southern Lebanon.

Several impacts reported in northern Israel after Hezbollah rocket fire, Israeli medics say

Three impact sites were reported in northern Israel's Kiryat Shmona following Hezbollah rocket fire at the town and nearby communities, Haaretz reported. One of the strikes hit a vehicle.

Hezbollah claims 8 new attacks on Israeli army in Qantara, 4 in Bint Jbeil

Hezbollah said it carried out eight new attacks against the Israeli army in Qantara (Marjayoun), between 6:46 a.m. and 11:45 a.m., including five between 10:00 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. It said it targeted Israeli soldiers and military vehicles with rockets, as well as two Merkava tanks using guided missiles, claiming both were hit “with precision,” according to its statements.

The group also said it carried out four additional attacks between 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. targeting Israeli soldiers and vehicles in Bint Jbeil, without reporting Israeli casualties, as well as one attack at 11:00 a.m. in Mashrou al-Taybeh (Marjayoun).

Hezbollah also claimed a separate attack on Nahariya in northern Israel.

If Iran rejects US proposal, Israel warns of 'even more painful' strikes

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said that if Iran rejects a U.S. proposal calling on it in particular to abandon “nuclear armament,” Israel would carry out “even more painful” strikes against additional targets.

“Iran is at a historic crossroads: one path involves renouncing terrorism and nuclear armament, in line with the American proposal; the other leads to an abyss,” the minister said during a ceremony.

“If the Iranian regime chooses the second option, it will very quickly discover that there are targets far more painful than those we have already struck,” he added.

From Beirut, British minister for the Middle East calls for cease-fire

British Minister of State for the Middle East Hamish Falconer has called for a cease-fire in the war between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, during a visit to the country.

“This is not a conflict for which Lebanon bears responsibility. There must be a cease-fire. We welcome the talks that have begun,” Falconer told AFP, referring to a meeting on Tuesday between the Lebanese and Israeli ambassadors in Washington.

“The strikes in Lebanon have had terrible consequences for civilians,” he said, noting that since early March Israeli operations and bombardments have killed more than 2,000 people, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry.

“Hezbollah must stop its fire” and be disarmed, he added, stressing that “it is the Lebanese government that must hold the monopoly on the use of force in Lebanon.”

Falconer also called for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which has been largely disrupted by Iran since the start of the war, ahead of a videoconference on Friday co-chaired by the United Kingdom and France on this key maritime route.

Israeli army continues strikes on south Lebanon, killing another medic

The Israeli army continued its strikes on south Lebanon on Thursday, even as reports of a possible imminent cease-fire intensified. Over the past two hours, it carried out attacks across multiple districts of south Lebanon, killing another medic from the Islamic Health Committee (CSI, affiliated with Hezbollah) in a strike on Majadel (Sour district).

The victim was identified as the head of the local CSI center, Mohammad Fayez Abdel Hussein, according to our correspondent in south Lebanon.

More specifically, strikes hit Sultanieh and Froun in the Bint Jbeil district; Qantara in Marjayoun; Qleileh, Hanouiyeh and Majadel in Sour; Bnaafoul, Mansouri and Ansariyeh in the Sidon district; the al-Aroush quarry in Aaramta in the Jezzine district; and Kfar Roummane, Kfar Sir, Deir Zahrani, Toul, Doueir — where a strike targeted the al-Amana petrol station affiliated with Hezbollah — as well as Ansar, Qseibeh and Deir Zahrani in the Nabatiyeh district.

Kfar Roummane alone was hit by 13 airstrikes on Thursday, according to our correspondent.

Israeli drone strike hits car traveling on the Saida–Beirut road

An Israeli drone strike targeted a vehicle on the highway between Saida and Beirut, near Saadiyat. The driver was seriously injured, according to our correspondent in south Lebanon.

On Wednesday morning, the Israeli army had already carried out two consecutive drone strikes on cars traveling on the main highway toward the south, about 20 kilometers from the capital, one of them also near Saadiyat.

Trump has 'no right' to threaten other countries, Lula says

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has criticized his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump, saying he “has no right” to threaten other countries, AFP reports.

Lula’s remarks came after Trump warned earlier this month that “an entire civilization will die” in Iran if Tehran did not reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

“Trump has no right to wake up in the morning and threaten a country,” the Brazilian leader told the Spanish newspaper El País, adding that the U.S. Constitution divides responsibilities over war and foreign policy between Congress and the president.

“It is essential that powerful leaders take greater responsibility in maintaining peace,” said Lula, 80.

The Brazilian left-wing president and his 79-year-old right-wing populist U.S. counterpart are divided on many issues, including multilateralism, international trade, and climate change.

Relations between Brasilia and Washington remain tense, despite a meeting between the two leaders last year that led to a slight easing of tensions and reduced tariffs.

⚡ Israeli army preparing for cease-fire in Lebanon at 7 p.m., according to Haaretz

The Israeli army is preparing for a cease-fire in Lebanon scheduled for 7 p.m. (Beirut time), military officials told Haaretz.

Senior Israeli military commanders have reportedly received instructions to prepare forces currently deployed in southern Lebanon for the truce, which is expected to begin between 7 p.m. and midnight, the Israeli newspaper reported.

Washington will maintain blockade of Iran ports 'for as long as it takes'

Washington will maintain its blockade of Iranian ports “for as long as it takes,” U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Thursday, according to AFP.

“As long as it takes, we will maintain this blockade — a blockade that is working,” Hegseth said during a press briefing at the Pentagon.

“Let me be clear, this blockade applies to all ships, regardless of nationality, heading into or from Iranian ports,"

This U.S. operation is a blockade of Iranian ports … not a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz,” added Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Dan Caine, who was speaking alongside him.

The Defense Secretary also noted that “Iran’s motivation to maintain the cease-fire is high,” according to Reuters. He added that the United States “would welcome participation from other countries to assist regarding the Strait of Hormuz.” Hegseth also said that “China has assured the United States it will not send weapons to Iran during the cease-fire in the Middle East war.”

President Joseph Aoun will not hold a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the near future

President Joseph Aoun will not hold a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the near future, three Lebanese officials told Reuters on Thursday, after U.S. President Donald Trump said leaders of both countries would speak.

Two of the Lebanese officials said that the Lebanese embassy in Washington had informed the U.S. administration before a call between Aoun and Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday that Aoun would not speak to Netanyahu.

Ghalibaf: Cease-fire in Lebanon is 'as important' as in Iran

A cease-fire in Lebanon is "as important" as in Iran, says the speaker of the Iranian parliament, quoted by AFP.

The speaker of the Iranian parliament, a rising figure in the Islamic Republic, stated that a cease-fire in Lebanon is just as important as one in Iran, in a message posted on the Telegram messaging app.

"I am closely following the situation in Lebanon and the establishment of a ceasefire in that country, a matter of paramount importance to us," Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said, reporting on a conversation with his Lebanese counterpart, Nabih Berri.

"We are striving to compel our enemies to establish a permanent cease-fire in all conflict zones, in accordance with the truce agreement reached on April 8 with the United States," he added.

Hezbollah claims 4 successive attacks against the Israeli army in Qantara, and two in Robb Thalathin, Taybeh

Hezbollah has claimed four successive attacks against the Israeli army in Qantara, and two in Robb Thalathin and Taybeh, three villages in the Marjayoun district, where Israel is seeking to break through.

Hezbollah says it fired rockets four times between 10 and 10:30 a.m. at Israeli soldiers and vehicles in Qantara. The Israeli army has not maintained a continuous presence in the village since the beginning of the week, after largely demolishing it.

Simultaneously, the group says it targeted another group of soldiers in Robb Thalathin and Taybeh, as well as recently established Israeli artillery positions between Odaisseh and Robb Thalathin, also in the same district.

Iran: Pakistani army chief met with parliament speaker

The influential Pakistani army chief, Asim Munir, met with Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, according to Iranian state media, as part of ongoing negotiations for a possible resumption of Iranian-American talks, AFP reports.

The exact location of the meeting was not specified by state television, but the Mizan news agency published photos of the two men. The Pakistani delegation had arrived in Iran the previous day, shortly before Washington raised the possibility of a second round of negotiations with Iran.

Pakistani prime minister in Qatar as US-Iran talks continue

Pakistan’s prime minister, a key mediator in the U.S.-Iran cease-fire, has arrived in Qatar as he pushes for a second round of peace talks between Washington and Tehran, Reuters reports.

Shehbaz Sharif’s office said in statements that his delegation arrived in Doha after a visit to Saudi Arabia and was scheduled to meet with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The two men are expected to “exchange views on Pakistan’s ongoing efforts for regional and global peace,” according to his office.

The Pakistani prime minister was then scheduled to travel to Turkey, the final stop on a four-day tour that follows high-level talks between U.S. and Iranian delegations in Islamabad last weekend. The talks in Pakistan failed to produce an immediate agreement to permanently end the war in the Middle East, following the start of a two-week cease-fire on the 7th.

Israeli strikes on Kfar Roummane, Nabatieh district

A series of airstrikes hit Kfar Roummane, a village near Nabatieh, according to our correspondent in southern Lebanon.

The strikes targeted the outskirts of the industrial zone, as well as the area around the Tawfir supermarket.

Israeli airstrikes also targeted Arnoun and Ebba, also in the Nabatieh district. Four Israeli strikes also targeted Kfar Hatta, while the village of Kfar Melki was bombed in the Saida District. An airstrike targeted Bsalieh (Jezzine), while a motorcycle was targeted by a drone in Kfar Dounin (Bint Jbeil).

Israel kills 1 person in drone strike on Dahr al-Baidar, between Beirut, Bekaa Valley

One person was killed in an Israeli drone strike that targeted a pickup truck on the Dahr al-Baidar road, according to our correspondent in the Bekaa Valley. Traffic was blocked heading towards the Bekaa Valley after the strike.

On March 6, Israel had already targeted a vehicle on this same road.

Aoun emphasizes importance of cease-fire before direct negotiations with Israel

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated that a cease-fire must be the "natural gateway to direct negotiations" with Israel, which will then be conducted "exclusively by the Lebanese authorities."

During a meeting with British Minister of State for Middle Eastern Affairs Hamish Nicholas Falconer, Aoun reiterated that this preliminary ceasefire is a demand within the framework of the "Presidential Negotiation Initiative," according to remarks published on X by the presidency.

"The negotiations will be conducted exclusively by the Lebanese authorities, as this is a matter of sovereignty in which no other actor can be involved," he insisted, while Iran yesterday welcomed its efforts to push for an upcoming cease-fire, which was ultimately not approved by Israel.

“The withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory is an essential step to consolidate the ceasefire, allow the redeployment of the Lebanese army to the international border, strengthen state authority, and end all armed presence,” the president insisted, demanding “an end to attacks against civilians and the destruction of homes in Lebanese villages.”

He further emphasized that the government’s decisions, particularly regarding the arms monopoly, “will be implemented in the interest of Lebanon and to ensure the protection of all Lebanese who wish to see their state solely responsible for the country’s security and stability.”

For his part, Falconer expressed London’s support for a ceasefire and negotiations and announced £20.5 million (nearly $28 million) in humanitarian aid to assist displaced persons.

Israeli drone strike on Dahr al-Baidar road, which connects coast to Bekaa

(Credit: Our correspondent Sarah Abdallah)

An Israeli drone strike targeted a pickup truck on the main road in Dahr al-Baidar, which connects the coast to the Bekaa Valley and is considered a vital artery between the two regions, according to our correspondent.

A video shows a man lying on the ground next to the targeted vehicle, though his condition is not immediately known. The car itself was heavily damaged in the strike, according to the footage.

Israel claims destroyed '70 Hezbollah structures in one minute' in Bint Jbeil

The Israeli army has stated that forces from its Egoz unit “destroyed approximately 70 Hezbollah structures in the Bint Jbeil area within the span of one minute.”

In a message on X, the Arabic-language spokesperson for the Israeli army, Avichay Adraee, emphasizes that these destructions took place as part of its “intensified ground operation in southern Lebanon” and publishes a video showing the demolition of an entire neighborhood.

The Egoz unit is an elite commando unit specializing in counter-insurgency operations, special reconnaissance, and direct action.

According to Adraee, these destructions took place after operations in the Ainata region, near Bint Jbeil, during which the Israeli army "discovered RPG rocket launchers, Kalashnikov rifles, ammunition, improvised explosive devices, an anti-aircraft missile, and other military equipment" and killed "several fighters" from Hezbollah.

Hezbollah claims responsibility for attacks against Israeli soldiers in Khiam

Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for new attacks against Israeli soldiers in and around Khiam, in eastern Lebanon. It stated that it attacked soldiers in the town, as well as on Hamames Hill, south of the town, which the Israeli army has occupied since 2024, with rockets.

Hezbollah also reported targeting a military position in Rosh Hanikra, opposite Ras Naqoura, in northern Israel with "attack drones," and an artillery position in Kfar Giladi "with a salvo of rockets."

Israel strikes Qasmieh Bridge, near Sour, again

The Qasmieh Bridge, which connects Sour to the rest of Lebanon, was bombed again by Israeli aircraft, according to our correspondent. Shortly before, the Lebanese Army evacuated a checkpoint near the bridge, while drone strikes in the area injured several people.

According to information obtained by our correspondent, the Lebanese Army had evacuated its positions near the bridge spanning the Litani River, which has been targeted several times and had been partially reopened to traffic last week. All roads leading to the bridge had been closed by the Lebanese Army before this latest bombing, the impact and damage of which are not immediately known, according to local sources.

The Lebanese Army confirmed to L'Orient-Le Jour that despite the measures taken, one of its soldiers stationed on the bridge was wounded in an initial raid, which also injured a Palestinian.

Prior to this double strike, a drone strike in an orchard behind the al-Saheli factory in the village of Qasmieh had killed one Syrian and wounded a second person.

Situation in south Lebanon, according to our correspondent

An Israeli drone strike targeted the Rahbat neighborhood in the city of Nabatieh. Another drone strike targeted a motorcycle at the Zifta intersection in the same district, seriously injuring one person.

In the Sour district, an airstrike on Qleileh killed one person. Artillery shelling was also reported between Bazourieh and Burj al-Shemali.

In the same district, the Israeli army detonated a building at the official high school in the border town of Marwahine.

Two airstrikes targeted Froun and Kounine (in the Bint Jbeil district).

Peace in Lebanon 'essential for negotiations with Iran,' according to Islamabad

“Peace in Lebanon is essential for peace negotiations with Iran,” stated Tahir Andrabi, spokesperson for the Pakistani Foreign Affairs Ministry. He added that Lebanon “remains part of the current ceasefire,” a position expressed by Pakistan since the agreement came into effect on April 8, but which Israel rejects.

Meanwhile, according to a senior Iranian official quoted by Reuters, Iran and the United States have narrowed their differences following Pakistani mediation, but disagreements persist, particularly regarding Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.

This official specified that a visit to Tehran by the head of the Pakistani army, Field Marshal Asim Munir, on Wednesday had helped to reduce some of the differences, bolstering hopes for an extension of the cease-fire and a resumption of negotiations between Tehran and Washington.

Israel claims to have thwarted 2 Hezbollah attacks against its forces in southern Lebanon

The Israeli army stated that its 769th Brigade, operating under the command of the 91st Division, thwarted two attempted attacks prepared by Hezbollah cells and targeting Israeli soldiers operating in southern Lebanon.

In a message on X, Arabic-language army spokesperson Avichay Adraee said they had eliminated the members of these cells, without specifying where the attacks were thwarted. According to Israeli press reports, the 91st Division operates in the eastern sector of the border strip.

Adraee further indicated that the 91st Division discovered an underground depot containing mortar shells, as well as anti-tank missiles, rifles, and RPG rocket launchers, within its area of ​​operations.

Israel reiterates order for residents of entire area south of Zahrani River to move north

The Israeli army has once again ordered residents south of the Zahrani River, which flows into the Mediterranean Sea south of Saida, in southern Lebanon, to evacuate the area northward.

“For your safety, we urge you to immediately go to the area north of the Zahrani River. Remaining south of the Zahrani River could endanger your life and the lives of your families,” said Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee. “Airstrikes are underway, with the army deploying a significant force in the area. Therefore, for your safety, we once again ask you to immediately evacuate your homes and go directly north of the Zahrani River,” the spokesperson wrote.

This evacuation order has been regularly reissued by the Israeli army since March 12. Israeli bombings, often without warning, also affect villages north of the river.

Israeli minister also mentioned upcoming call 'between Aoun, Netanyahu'

Following Donald Trump's announcement, Israeli Minister of Science and Technology Gila Gamliel-Demri stated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would "speak with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun," according to Haaretz. The Likud minister did not confirm when this conversation would take place.

According to Yedioth Ahronoth, Gamliel-Demri made these remarks on Israeli army radio and expressed her hope "that this will ultimately lead to the prosperity and flourishing of Lebanon as a country." "This is a step that has been carefully considered over time," she said.

Hezbollah claims to have repelled an Israeli advance this morning in Qantara, south Lebanon

Hezbollah stated that it repelled an Israeli advance early this morning "towards the Al-Khazzan area in Qantara [Marjayoun]," operating from the town of Taybeh, further east, and added that clashes are ongoing.

"Starting at 5:30 a.m., fighters engaged in armed clashes with the enemy force and targeted them with guided weapons, resulting in the destruction of four tanks and two armored personnel carriers," the movement's statement emphasized.

The Israeli army withdrew from Qantara and the neighboring village of Deir Siryan earlier this week, after largely destroying them, in order to retreat for strategic reasons to Taybeh, further east.

Furthermore, the party-militia announced that it had launched "rocket salvos" at 8:20 a.m. on the Israeli towns of Karmiel and Bekiin, and at 8:45 a.m. on Kiryat Shmona, Kfar Giladi, Misgav Am, and Margaliot.

Israel strikes Kfar Houneh, in the Jezzine district, and Sohmor, in the Bekaa Valley

Israeli warplanes recently bombed the outskirts of Kfar Houneh, a mixed village in Jezzine, and earlier on Roumin (Nabatieh) near the Roumin-Sarba-Deir Zahrani intersection, according to our correspondent.

Earlier this morning, Israeli warplanes bombed Sohmor in the western Bekaa Valley, reports our correspondent in the Bekaa.

Lebanon 'unaware' of upcoming contact with Israel

Lebanon “is not aware” of any upcoming contact with Israel, an official source told AFP, after U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the leaders of the two warring countries would speak later that day. “We are not aware of any planned contact with the Israeli side and we have not been informed of it through official channels,” the source told AFP.

“We are trying to create a little respite between Israel and Lebanon. It has been a long time since the two leaders have spoken, about 34 years. It will happen tomorrow,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social network. However, Lebanese and Israeli leaders did not have any contact 34 years ago.

Hezbollah claims several attacks on northern Israel

Overnight, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for "drone swarm" attacks on northern Israel on Wednesday, including attacks on a logistics base of the Israeli army's 146th Division (north of Sheikh Dannoun) east of Nahariya at 11:20 a.m. and on the 146th Division's headquarters in Ga'toun at 2:30 p.m. It also announced that it had targeted a communications radar at the Katsavia barracks in the occupied Syrian Golan Heights at 3:15 p.m. the same day with a salvo of rockets.

The pro-Iranian movement also claimed responsibility for attacks by swarms of exploding drones against the Liman barracks, north of Nahariya, at 1:10 a.m., and against the Hanita kibbutz at 2:30 a.m. Finally, it announced that it had launched salvos of rockets against the Talat al-Ajal site, north of the town of Kfar Yuval, at 1:40 a.m.

Trump says Israeli, Lebanese leaders will talk today

The leaders of Israel and Lebanon will talk on Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced last night, the day after the first direct talks between the two countries.

"Trying to create a little bit of a respite between Israel and Lebanon. It's been a long time since the two leaders have spoken, about 34 years. It's going to happen tomorrow. Great!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social account.

Trump did not specify which leaders would be involved in the discussions or how they would take place. According to local media, the announcement came after a meeting at the White House between President Trump and U.S. Ambassador to Beirut Michel Issa. The Israeli cabinet met for several hours Wednesday evening to discuss the possibility of a cease-fire, but no agreement was reached.

Israeli airstrikes this morning on the Shbeil region, in the Jezzine district

Israeli airstrikes also struck the Shbeil Valley, near Katrani, in the Jezzine district, this morning, according to our correspondent.

Around 6 a.m., the air force launched a series of strikes on Arab Salim and Jabal al-Rafih in the Iqlim al-Tuffah (Nabatieh) region. The explosions were heard as far away as Saida.

Israel advancing on Debbine, village north of Khiam, about 1 km from the Litani River

Israel has also made an advance on Debbine as part of its ground invasion of southern Lebanon. Debbine is located north of Khiam, in the Marjayoun district (eastern sector), where fighting has been ongoing between Hezbollah and Israeli soldiers since the beginning of the ground offensive.

According to local sources contacted by our correspondent, for the first time since early March, sounds of clashes were heard at the entrance to the village, near the industrial zone. The village had previously been subjected to an hour of intense artillery bombardment and was shelled 11 times on Wednesday.

Debbine is located a few hundred meters north of Jdeidet Marjayoun, a still-inhabited village where residents, according to one of them contacted by our correspondent, received a voicemail message presumably from the Israeli army. In this message, purportedly from the Israeli army, a man urges residents of Marjayoun not to travel north due to ongoing military operations in the area.

Debbine is located just over a kilometer as the crow flies from the nearest point on the banks of the Litani River. In recent days, fighting between Hezbollah and the Israeli army had been concentrated, according to the militia, in northern Khiam, while the Israeli army had withdrawn from two villages in the Marjeyoun district, Deir Siryan and Qantara, which it had previously razed.

In the eastern sector, Hezbollah announced that it had targeted and hit a Merkava tank on Tuesday at 2 p.m. on the northeastern outskirts of Bint Jbeil, a completely encircled city, using a guided missile.

Israel bombed outskirts of Burj al-Shamali Palestinian refugee camp near Sour overnight, for the first time

During the night of Wednesday to Thursday, Israeli warplanes carried out a series of bombings in southern Lebanon, including, for the first time since the resumption of the offensive on March 2, a strike on a building at the entrance to the Burj al-Shamali Palestinian refugee camp near Sour, according to our correspondent in southern Lebanon.

This airstrike, carried out around 1:30 a.m., targeted a house near the former UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees) clinic in the camp. The strike caused significant damage, damaging an electrical transformer, several cars and houses, and sparked fires that firefighters brought under control. No casualties were reported.

Earlier, in another rare occurrence, an airstrike targeted a house on the outskirts of Hebbarieh (Hasbaya), killing its owner, Friz Abu Qays. Rescue teams were on the scene searching for other possible victims. The Israeli Air Force also conducted strikes on Shebaa (Hasbaya) and the city of Nabatieh.

Good morning. We are now launching our LIVE coverage of the region for the day.

We are now launching our live coverage of the region for the day, as U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Lebanese and Israeli leaders would speak later today.

This contact could take place as the Israeli army continues to put pressure on Lebanon, particularly the South, where it is razing entire villages along the border.

➡️ Access our Wednesday live coverage here.