Israel, Hezbollah renew ceasefire after deadly 24-hour flareup

Israel and Hezbollah agreed to renew a fragile ceasefire Friday, following 24 hours of intense violence that challenged a new agreement between the US and Iran aimed at ending their conflict. The escalation occurred just as a meeting between the US and Iran in Switzerland to discuss the implementation of their deal was cancelled.

Hezbollah killed four Israeli soldiers overnight, prompting Israel to launch retaliatory airstrikes across southern Lebanon and the Bekaa valley. These strikes killed at least 47 people, according to Lebanon's health ministry. The clashes were the most violent since the current ceasefire was established, with Hezbollah targeting Israeli forces near Nabatieh and Israel striking what it described as Hezbollah targets.

The renewed violence added to the uncertainty surrounding efforts to find a definitive end to a regional war that has claimed at least 7,000 lives, driven up energy prices, and threatened global economic stability. U.S. President Donald Trump defended the deal, stating, "The War has diminished Iran!" He asserted that Iran was desperate and "FINISHED!"

Lebanon has emerged as a critical flashpoint that could undermine Trump's efforts to withdraw the U.S. from the conflict. The Israeli official stated late Friday, "If Hezbollah does not attack us, then for us it is not a time of war," while two Hezbollah sources confirmed the new ceasefire to Reuters. Many Israeli commentators believe Iran will be strengthened by the recent deal.

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If Hezbollah does not attack us, then for us it is not a time of war.