Israel, Lebanon Sign Peace Deal Amidst Escalating Iran-U.S. Tensions

Israel and Lebanon have signed a framework agreement in Washington, paving the way for peace between the two nations. U.S. Secretary of State Rubio described the deal as a "first step," while Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu called it "a blow to Iran." Lebanese President Aoun stated that "the people will return home under the sovereignty of Lebanon," asserting full control over their territory.

However, Hezbollah has rejected the agreement, claiming it "undermines Lebanon's sovereignty and causes dangerous internal divisions." Meanwhile, tensions have escalated in the Strait of Hormuz after Iranian forces launched attacks on ships. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed responsibility, stating they had targeted U.S. military positions in response to U.S. raids.

Iran's Foreign Ministry condemned the U.S. attacks, calling them a "flagrant violation of the peace agreement" and the UN Charter. According to state television, the attacks targeted coastal surveillance facilities. Iran asserted its right to self-defense and launched retaliatory actions against U.S.-linked targets. The ministry urged Persian Gulf states to prevent their territory from being used for hostile actions and called on the UN to intervene.

Adding to the regional instability, Lebanese national news agency reported Israeli airstrikes near the border town of Markaba. This development follows the framework agreement signed by Israel and Lebanon. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that "if the aggression is repeated, our response will be broader than this," indicating a willingness to escalate further. In Beirut, Hezbollah supporters took to the streets to protest the agreement, leading to intervention by the Lebanese army.