Israel Hammers Lebanon Despite Reported Deal with Hezbollah: As It Happened (Videos, Photos)

Israel Hammers Lebanon Despite Reported Deal with Hezbollah: As It Happened (Videos, Photos) A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, reportedly brokered by the US and Qatar with Iran’s assistance, was expected to begin on Friday. However, official confirmation from either side is lacking, and Israel continued its strikes into Lebanon, resulting in at least 18 fatalities overnight according to Lebanon’s health ministry. This occurred despite an American-Iranian memo of understanding aiming for a comprehensive ceasefire on all fronts.

• Reuters reported a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah starting Friday, citing unnamed US and Hezbollah officials.
• No official confirmation has been provided by the Israel Defense Forces or Hezbollah.
• Negotiations involved the US and Qatar, with assistance from Iran.
• Lebanon’s health ministry reported that Israel’s overnight strikes killed at least 18 people.
• A Hezbollah lawmaker stated that Iran informed the group that talks with Washington could not proceed without a comprehensive ceasefire.
• The Lebanese government previously banned Hezbollah’s military and security activity, despite the group’s representation in government and parliament.