Israel and Hezbollah have reached a ceasefire agreement, according to a senior U.S. official. The truce took effect at 4 p.m. local time on Friday after intense negotiations involving the United States, Qatar, and support from Iran.
The deal comes after fresh exchanges of fire earlier in the day that killed people on both sides. It is seen as a key step to reduce tensions in the region following days of escalation.
Details of the agreement are still limited, but both sides have agreed to stop fighting. This offers hope for temporary calm after heavy clashes. Hezbollah sources told Reuters they began implementing the ceasefire right away.
However, an Israeli military spokesperson said forces would continue operations based on current political orders unless changed. Recent Israeli strikes in Lebanon killed at least 21 people after Hezbollah killed four Israeli soldiers.
Iran condemned the attacks and linked any broader deal to ending hostilities in Lebanon. U.S. Vice President JD Vance postponed talks with Iran due to the violence.
The ceasefire aims to bring stability, but experts warn it remains fragile. Both sides are watching closely as the situation develops.
