Israel's military has launched strikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, citing repeated violations of a ceasefire by the Iran-backed group. The attacks, which continued through Thursday night, targeted what the Israeli Defense Forces described as "Hezbollah terrorists and infrastructure sites." Lebanese state media reported three people killed in the strikes, while Hezbollah claimed its fighters were engaged in fresh clashes with Israeli forces.
US-Iran Talks Canceled
Meanwhile, talks scheduled for Friday between the United States and Iran on implementing a 14-point agreement to end their war have been canceled, Switzerland's foreign ministry announced. Vice President JD Vance postponed his trip to Switzerland, casting uncertainty over the next steps. Iran's Tasnim news agency said "nothing has been confirmed" about the Iranian delegation's trip. A White House spokesperson expressed hope for starting technical talks as soon as possible.
Vance Rebukes Israeli Critics
Vance lashed out at Israeli critics of the Iran deal, asserting that Donald Trump is Israel's only remaining ally in the world. He referenced the billions in defense aid the U.S. provides to Israel, stating, "Trump is the only head of state in the entire world who is sympathetic to the nation of Israel at this moment in time." Trump also called for a complete ceasefire on all fronts, including Lebanon, Hezbollah, and Israel, urging all parties to allow negotiations to proceed.
Iran's Supreme Leader Approves Deal
Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, approved the deal despite having a "different view." In a message read on state television, he said he granted permission due to commitments from President Pezeshkian to protect Iranian rights and the resistance front. Khamenei claimed Trump had used all levers to secure the deal "out of desperation." Trump, however, hailed the agreement as a victory that averts a worldwide depression.
Hormuz Strait Tensions
Iran announced plans to introduce maritime fees in the Strait of Hormuz after a 60-day negotiation period triggered by the memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Tehran declared the strait under its control and warned against a European naval mission to escort ships. The U.S. Central Command ended its blockade of the strait, which had been in effect since April 13. Marine Traffic data showed at least seven ships crossing the strait on Thursday. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that military action and blockade would resume if Iran fails to fulfill its commitments.
Other Developments
- Vance stated the 60-day period for final agreement with Iran started Thursday, setting a deadline of August 17.
- Pakistan's foreign ministry said the signing ceremony in Switzerland was canceled as the MoU had already been signed remotely.
- EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas faced Israeli backlash after comments comparing Israel to apartheid South Africa, leading Israel to sever diplomatic relations.
