Smoke rises over Lebanon’s capital of Beirut following Israeli airstrikes on Wednesday. Israel said it was targeting Iran-backed Hezbollah, despite a U.S. ceasefire with Iran.
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The announcement of a temporary ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran has not halted Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon, where Israel continues to target Hezbollah, a group backed by Iran. The truce, while welcomed by many, is already facing challenges with reports of attacks from Iran and several Gulf Arab countries.
Israel’s military actions in Lebanon, including significant strikes in Beirut, have faced condemnation from Iran and criticism from Pakistan, a mediator in the ceasefire talks. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged all parties to uphold the ceasefire for two weeks to allow diplomatic efforts to progress.
The ceasefire marks a significant shift from President Trump’s previous threats, which included a dire warning to Iran if it did not agree to open the Strait of Hormuz. Despite international criticism, Trump hailed the ceasefire as a step toward world peace.
The truce has provided some relief to global markets, with a drop in crude oil prices and a surge in stocks as the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route, is expected to reopen.
Protesters in opposition to the war with Iran gather outside of Lafayette Park across from the White House in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday.
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President Trump has also indicated that the U.S. will collaborate with Iran to address nuclear material concerns, while warning of tariffs on countries supplying arms to Iran.
Israel’s Largest Strikes in Lebanon Amid Ceasefire
Despite the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, Israel launched its most extensive military operation in Lebanon since the war’s onset, targeting Hezbollah. This action has intensified the already volatile situation in the region.
Hezbollah has been accused by Israel of embedding itself within civilian areas, complicating military operations. The conflict has resulted in over 1,500 deaths in Lebanon and displaced more than a million people.
A man flashes the V-sign while driving a vehicle loaded with belongings through the al-Qassimyah area en route to southern Lebanon early on Wednesday, after the U.S. and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire. Israel continued its strikes in Lebanon saying it was not part of the truce.
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Despite the ceasefire announcement, Israeli airstrikes and artillery shelling continue across parts of Lebanon, including areas not initially warned about by Israel. The ongoing attacks have led Lebanese authorities to urge displaced citizens to remain in safe locations.
Israel has justified its actions by stating that its operations against Hezbollah do not fall under the U.S.-Iran ceasefire agreement. However, the situation remains tense as Hezbollah insists Lebanon is included in the ceasefire, warning of regional responses if Israel does not comply.
Iran has condemned the Israeli assaults, holding the U.S. accountable for ensuring adherence to the ceasefire terms.
Iran and Gulf States Report Attacks Amid Ceasefire
Iran reported an attack on its Lavan oil refinery, while Gulf countries intercepted drones and missiles believed to be from Iran. Israel has denied involvement in the attack on the refinery.
Kuwait and the UAE have sustained damage to critical infrastructure from drone attacks, while Saudi Arabia’s vital oil pipeline was also targeted.
In Iraq, Iranian-backed militias continue drone assaults in areas near key U.S. installations, according to the U.S. Embassy.
Iran Celebrates Ceasefire as Strategic Win
Iranian leaders have proclaimed the ceasefire as a triumph, suggesting the U.S. has largely agreed to their 10-point proposal. However, they warn that any deviation from the agreement could lead to renewed hostilities.
While the exact details of the proposal remain unverified, speculation includes Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz and the cessation of hostilities in Lebanon.
A vendor displays morning newspapers at his roadside stall in Islamabad on Wednesday. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the United States, Iran and their allies had agreed to a ceasefire “everywhere,” including Lebanon, following mediation by his government to stop weeks of fighting.
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Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has expressed gratitude towards Pakistan for facilitating the truce, emphasizing that Iran’s military actions would cease if attacks against the nation stopped.
Debate Over Ceasefire Terms
President Trump has acknowledged receiving a 10-point proposal from Iran as a foundation for negotiations. The specifics of the proposal have yet to be confirmed, but reports suggest it includes demands for U.S. troop withdrawal and the lifting of sanctions.
The White House has dismissed these reports as inaccurate, stating that a new, more feasible plan is under consideration.
Trump has assured that the actual negotiation points are being discussed privately and not publicized.
Israeli Opposition Criticizes Netanyahu
Yair Lapid, the Israeli opposition leader, has criticized the ceasefire, calling it a political disaster and accusing Prime Minister Netanyahu of failing to achieve his objectives. Netanyahu defended the truce, claiming it strengthens Israel while weakening Iran.
A projectile is seen moments before hitting a building during an Israeli airstrike in the area of Abbasiyeh, on the outskirts of the southern Lebanese city of Tyre, on Wednesday.
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Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s resolve to eliminate the threat of Iran’s enriched uranium, whether through diplomacy or force.
A senior Israeli official, speaking anonymously, confirmed U.S. assurances to Israel regarding the removal of enriched uranium and addressing missile threats during negotiations.
American Journalist Released in Iraq
Shelly Kittleson, an American journalist, has been freed after being held by the Iranian-backed Kataib Hezbollah group in Iraq. Her release was part of a coordinated effort by multiple U.S. agencies.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed relief over her release and reiterated the U.S. stance against the unlawful detention of its citizens.
Kataib Hezbollah released Kittleson as a gesture towards Iraq’s Prime Minister, who played a role in the negotiations. The group demanded her immediate departure from Iraq.
U.S. journalist Shelly Kittleson poses for a cellphone photo in a cafe in Baghdad, Iraq, March 30.
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Rubio emphasized that the wrongful detention of U.S. nationals is unacceptable and assured that efforts would continue to bring Americans home.
Kataib Hezbollah, separate from the Lebanese Hezbollah, is part of a coalition of militias targeting U.S. interests in Iraq. The U.S. has responded with airstrikes.
Upon Kittleson’s abduction, the U.S. State Department had warned her of potential threats and worked with the FBI for her release. The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad advises all American citizens to exit Iraq due to rising attacks.
Lauren Frayer in Beirut, Daniel Estrin and Carrie Kahn in Tel Aviv, Israel, and Jane Arraf in Amman, Jordan contributed to this report.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
