Israel-Hezbollah agree to ceasefire, U.S. official says
Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire on Friday, a U.S. official confirmed to The Center Square.
Overnight, 18 people were killed in Lebanon amid strikes between Israel and Hezbollah, the Lebanon Health Ministry said. Four Israeli soldiers were also killed, according to the Israeli military.
A U.S. official confirmed on background that Israel and Hezbollah agreed to the ceasefire. The overnight attacks, first by Hezbollah and countered by Israel, appeared to stall peace talks between the United States and Iran.
Vice President JD Vance delayed a planned trip to Switzerland that was set to include discussions of Iran’s nuclear program. The first article in a memorandum of understanding between Iran and the U.S. calls for an end to the fighting in Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah.
The memorandum sets out a 60-day ceasefire for negotiations to continue on the future of Iran’s nuclear program, and set up a $300 billion reconstruction fund for Iran.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously vowed to retaliate after the four Israeli soliders were killed.
“Israel will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as required to protect the settlements in the north,” Netanyahu said before the ceasefire was announced. The terms of the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire are unclear. The ceasefire’s effect in ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran is also unclear.
Latest News Stories
AI safety regulations advance in Springfield, despite industry concern
EXCLUSIVE: U.S. Border Patrol chief retires after historic drop in illegal border crossings
White House urges state AGs to target, punish Medicaid fraudsters
NASA unveils $1B moon base push amid cost questions
Drug-discount program likely to expand in Illinois, despite lax oversight
Analyst warns Bears megaproject bill could raise taxes
Chicago proposes funding tax rebates with salaries from vacant city jobs
Ceasefire remains in effect as U.S., Iran exchange fire
Illinois news in brief: Prosecutors charge man with using care in attempt to kill cops; Military higher education bill goes to governor; Burrito chain closes locations in Chicago area
Frankfort Board Weighs Higher Substitute Pay Amid Staffing Shortages
Lincoln-Way North to Host TV Pilot Filming Under $210,000 Rental Deal
Frankfort Township Closes Fiscal Year With $2.48 Million General Fund Balance