Israel Backs U.S.-Iran Ceasefire But Excludes Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions

Israel has officially backed a proposed ceasefire between the United States and Iran, but has made it unequivocally clear that the agreement does not include Lebanon. This revelation comes as Israeli air strikes continue to target positions along the northern border, raising fears of a prolonged conflict in a region already reeling from years of instability. Al Jazeera's Heidi Pett reported from Beirut on Thursday that residents are growing increasingly anxious, citing a history of broken ceasefires and the persistent threat of displacement.

The latest developments have left Lebanon in a precarious position. While the US and Iran have reportedly reached a deal to halt hostilities in the broader Middle East, Lebanon remains excluded from the agreement. Israeli military officials have confirmed that their operations in the country are not subject to the ceasefire terms, emphasizing that "Lebanon is not a party to this agreement and will not be treated as such." This stance has been met with frustration by Lebanese officials, who argue that the country is being sacrificed on the altar of regional power struggles.

According to the United Nations, over 1.2 million Lebanese citizens have been displaced since the conflict began in late 2024. Many of those affected live in makeshift camps near the border, where access to clean water and medical supplies remains limited. "Every time we think things might settle, the bombs come back," said one displaced resident in a southern village. "We're tired of waiting for peace that never arrives."

Israeli strikes have intensified in recent weeks, with reports of targeted attacks on Hezbollah positions and infrastructure. The Israeli Defense Forces confirmed that 14 strikes were conducted in the past 48 hours, though they did not specify the exact locations. Hezbollah, meanwhile, has issued a warning that it will not stand idly by as Israeli forces continue their incursions. "We will respond in kind," a senior Hezbollah commander said in a statement released on Thursday.

The exclusion of Lebanon from the ceasefire has sparked concern among international diplomats, who fear the conflict could escalate further. The European Union has called for "urgent de-escalation" and expressed disappointment that Lebanon was not included in the agreement. Meanwhile, the Lebanese government has demanded that Israel halt all military operations immediately and allow humanitarian aid to reach affected areas.

As the situation continues to unfold, the people of Lebanon face an uncertain future. With no clear end in sight, the cycle of violence shows no signs of abating—and for many, the hope for lasting peace feels increasingly distant.