Israel carries out air strikes on Lebanon, state media says, as Iran claims deal with US near
Yahoo • • world
Key Points:
- Israel conducted air strikes in southern Lebanon, targeting about 20 locations after issuing evacuation orders, resulting in at least one death in the town of Marrakeh, as tensions with Hezbollah escalate.
- Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that a US-Iran peace deal is close to finalization, expected within 24 hours, with Iran's foreign minister confirming progress on an agreement that includes ending conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Hezbollah.
- The proposed deal entails reopening the Strait of Hormuz, lifting the US blockade on Iran, and a phased approach to Iran's reintegration into the global economy, contingent on Iran fulfilling its commitments, including halting support for proxy groups like Hezbollah.
- US officials emphasized that economic benefits for Iran will be performance-based rather than upfront payments, with ongoing negotiations planned on Iran’s nuclear program and the destruction of enriched uranium stockpiles.
- Despite cautious optimism, key stakeholders, including Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, have yet to reach a final consensus, and Israel remains excluded from the talks aiming to extend the ceasefire and address broader regional security issues.