The fragile truce between Israel and Lebanon is facing renewed pressure as Israeli strikes intensify across southern Lebanon. The latest escalation has raised fresh concerns about the durability of the ceasefire and the possibility of further clashes in the region.

The developments come amid continued tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, with diplomatic efforts facing major challenges. Watch this report for the latest updates, ground developments and what the renewed strikes could mean for the fragile truce in southern Lebanon.

Truce Fails as Israeli Strikes Intensify Across Southern Lebanon

The Israeli military says it has killed several Hezbollah fighters in southern Lebanon despite an existing ceasefire, while an Israeli soldier was injured during operations. Israel says it targeted Hezbollah positions inside a security zone to eliminate threats against its forces.

The strikes come as the United Nations voices concern over extensive demolitions near Beaufort Castle, a UNESCO-listed heritage site recently added to the list of World Heritage in Danger. Meanwhile, Hezbollah continues to reject the US-backed framework agreement that calls for its disarmament and Israeli troop withdrawal.

Israel Kills Hezbollah Fighters Despite Ceasefire | UNESCO Site Damaged In Lebanon

Lebanese authorities have arrested a man accused of spying for Israel and allegedly infiltrating Hezbollah's internal network in what investigators describe as one of the most significant intelligence breaches faced by the Iran-backed group in recent years. According to Lebanese investigators, the suspect allegedly provided highly sensitive intelligence that helped Israel identify and target several senior Hezbollah military commanders during 2024, including Fouad Shukur and Ibrahim Akil. Officials say the suspect maintained close access to Hezbollah's leadership and reportedly met individuals linked to Israel's Mossad intelligence agency during trips to Turkey before passing information about targets in Beirut.

Hezbollah security breach: Lebanon arrests alleged Israeli spy linked to top commanders' killings

Investigators say he was an Israeli spy who helped identify targets for the assassination of some of Hezbollah's top military leaders. If confirmed, the case would mark one of the most damaging intelligence failures the Iran-backed group has suffered in years.&nbsp;A Lebanese judicial official involved in the investigation described the suspect as a "high-level Israeli agent" with close access to Hezbollah's leadership, AFP reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Arab media, the suspect allegedly passed highly precise intelligence to Israel, leading to the deadly assassination of at least four of Hezbollah's top security commanders in 2024, including Fuad Shukr and Ibrahim Aqil.&nbsp;Fuad Shukr was Hezbollah's top military commander and a senior adviser to Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah. Ibrahim Aqil served as the commander of Hezbollah's elite Radwan Force and acted as the group's second-in-command for military operations.Former Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah was also killed in an Israeli strike on Beirut's southern suburbs in September 2024.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-seizes-6-2-billion-in-assets-linked-to-sheikh-hasina-amid-return-speculation-1784130584547">Bangladesh seizes $6.2 billion in assets linked to Sheikh Hasina amid return speculation</a>&nbsp;Lebanese security agencies reportedly detained the suspect at Beirut's airport as he prepared to board a flight to Iraq and leave the country.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/lebanon-arrests-israel-spy-who-betrayed-killed-hezbollah-leaders-1784201215418/embed

The man, who is from southern Lebanon, reportedly travelled frequently to Iraq, where his wife is from. From Iraq, he then travelled to Türkiye, where he allegedly met officers and agents linked to Israel's Mossad intelligence service and handed over intelligence on targets in Beirut.&nbsp;Prior to his arrest, Lebanese authorities were allegedly tracking his movements as well as monitoring his calls with contacts abroad.&nbsp;The case is reportedly not an isolated incident. According to reports, more than 30 people have been arrested by Lebanese authorities on suspicion of supplying Israel with intelligence on Hezbollah facilities and the movements of its members during the 2023 and 2024 wars.

Lebanon has detained an alleged Israeli agent accused of passing intelligence that led to the killings of top Hezbollah military leaders in 2024.

Investigators say he was an Israeli spy who helped identify targets for the assassination of some of Hezbollah's top military leaders. If confirmed, the case would mark one of the most damaging intelligence failures the Iran-backed group has suffered in years. A Lebanese judicial official involved in the investigation described the suspect as a "high-level Israeli agent" with close access to Hezbollah's leadership, AFP reported. According to Arab media, the suspect allegedly passed highly precise intelligence to Israel, leading to the deadly assassination of at least four of Hezbollah's top security commanders in 2024, including Fuad Shukr and Ibrahim Aqil. Fuad Shukr was Hezbollah's top military commander and a senior adviser to Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah. Ibrahim Aqil served as the commander of Hezbollah's elite Radwan Force and acted as the group's second-in-command for military operations. Former Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah was also killed in an Israeli strike on Beirut's southern suburbs in September 2024. Also Read: Bangladesh seizes $6.2 billion in assets linked to Sheikh Hasina amid return speculation Lebanese security agencies reportedly detained the suspect at Beirut's airport as he prepared to board a flight to Iraq and leave the country. https://www.wionews.com/videos/lebanon-arrests-israel-spy-who-betrayed-killed-hezbollah-leaders-1784201215418/embed

Lebanon has detained an alleged Israeli agent accused of passing intelligence that led to the killings of top Hezbollah military leaders in 2024.

Lebanon arrests alleged Israeli spy accused of betraying, exposing Hezbollah leaders

Negotiators from the US, Israel and Lebanon signed a trilateral framework on Friday after the fifth round of diplomatic talks. Talks ⁠included discussions on a US-backed proposal for Israeli forces to hand some of the territory they occupy to Lebanon’s military.&nbsp;Lebanon wanted a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory, but for Israel, the sticking point was the condition that any sort of withdrawal has to be contingent on the full disarmament of Hezbollah and an assurance that the group would not re-establish its military presence along the border.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-s-minister-romina-pourmokhtari-brings-baby-to-eu-meeting-on-climate-1782494743205">Youngest delegate? Sweden’s minister Romina Pourmokhtari brings baby to EU meeting on climate</a>&nbsp;“It’s the beginning of the beginning. There’s a lot of work ahead. Today is the first step. The first step is sometimes the hardest one,” US Secretary of ⁠State ⁠Marco Rubio said at the signing ceremony while announcing the framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon following several days of talks ⁠in Washington.&nbsp;“We are happy to announce a framework agreement between the sovereign government of Lebanon and, of course, the government of Israel, with the mediation and support of the United States of America,” Rubio said at the signing ceremony.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-strong-nuclear-verification-needed-in-iran-after-war-says-iaea-chief-rafael-grossi-1782488144019">‘Intentions not enough, very strong nuclear verification needed in Iran after war,’ says IAEA chief Rafael Grossi</a>&nbsp;He added that the agreement “begins to put in place a framework for lasting peace and security.”&nbsp;The US-mediated talks aimed at ending the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah, an Iran-backed Shiite militant group in Lebanon.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-twin-quakes-toll-climbs-to-589-thousands-missing-us-temporarily-removes-sanctions-on-caracas-1782482230379">Venezuela twin quakes toll climbs to 589, thousands missing; US temporarily lifts sanctions on Caracas</a>&nbsp;Lebanon was drawn into the Middle East war on March 2, when Hezbollah launched rockets into Israel in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes on Iran.&nbsp;As per reports, Israel has agreed for the IDF’s partial withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Israeli forces will pull out of two areas located inside the six-mile-long buffer zone the IDF has established in southern Lebanon.&nbsp;The areas have already been cleared by the IDF of Hezbollah infrastructure.

Lebanon wanted a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from its territory, but Israel insisted that any sort of withdrawal has to be contingent on the full disarmament of Hezbollah and an assurance that the group would not re-establish its military presence along the border.

Negotiators from the US, Israel and Lebanon signed a trilateral framework on Friday after the fifth round of diplomatic talks. Talks ⁠included discussions on a US-backed proposal for Israeli forces to hand some of the territory they occupy to Lebanon’s military. Lebanon wanted a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory, but for Israel, the sticking point was the condition that any sort of withdrawal has to be contingent on the full disarmament of Hezbollah and an assurance that the group would not re-establish its military presence along the border. Also Read: Youngest delegate? Sweden’s minister Romina Pourmokhtari brings baby to EU meeting on climate “It’s the beginning of the beginning. There’s a lot of work ahead. Today is the first step. The first step is sometimes the hardest one,” US Secretary of ⁠State ⁠Marco Rubio said at the signing ceremony while announcing the framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon following several days of talks ⁠in Washington. “We are happy to announce a framework agreement between the sovereign government of Lebanon and, of course, the government of Israel, with the mediation and support of the United States of America,” Rubio said at the signing ceremony. Also Read: ‘Intentions not enough, very strong nuclear verification needed in Iran after war,’ says IAEA chief Rafael Grossi He added that the agreement “begins to put in place a framework for lasting peace and security.” The US-mediated talks aimed at ending the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah, an Iran-backed Shiite militant group in Lebanon. Also Read: Venezuela twin quakes toll climbs to 589, thousands missing; US temporarily lifts sanctions on Caracas Lebanon was drawn into the Middle East war on March 2, when Hezbollah launched rockets into Israel in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes on Iran. As per reports, Israel has agreed for the IDF’s partial withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Israeli forces will pull out of two areas located inside the six-mile-long buffer zone the IDF has established in southern Lebanon. The areas have already been cleared by the IDF of Hezbollah infrastructure.

Lebanon wanted a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from its territory, but Israel insisted that any sort of withdrawal has to be contingent on the full disarmament of Hezbollah and an assurance that the group would not re-establish its military presence along the border.

US, Israel, Lebanon sign trilateral framework agreement after fifth round of talks in DC

Syria has rejected suggestions that it should play a military role in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict despite proposals reportedly backed by U.S. President Donald Trump. Damascus has reiterated its position that it will not be drawn into a broader regional war, even as tensions continue to rise across multiple fronts in West Asia.

Syria rejects military role in Israel-Hezbollah conflict as Trump proposes Syrian role in the war

A fresh flare-up between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon is once again raising alarms across the globe, and for India, the concern goes well beyond diplomacy.An Israeli strike on a vehicle in southern Lebanon killed two people on Wednesday (Jun 24), Lebanese state media reported, with Hezbollah calling it another violation of the truce between the two sides. The Israeli military, meanwhile, said it had targeted armed Hezbollah operatives who posed a threat and later struck a vehicle carrying suspects.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-peace-deal-inside-the-14-point-mou-that-ended-over-108-days-of-war-wion-decodes-donald-trump-mojtaba-khamenei-benjamin-netanyahu-lebanon-1781513800001">US-Iran peace deal: Inside the 14-point MoU that ended over 108 days of war | WION Decodes</a>One might say that this comes before the ink on the paper of the 14-point MoU between the United States and Iran could even dry. The incident is the latest reminder that even when the wider war appears to cool on paper, the risk of renewed escalation remains very real. For India, if the tensions between Israel and Hezbollah continue to flare up, it could mean a problem with direct economic and strategic consequences. Why? WION Decodes.<h2>Oil prices are the first worry</h2>India imports more than 85 per cent of its crude oil needs, much of it from West Asia. That makes any regional conflict involving Iran, Israel and Hezbollah a major concern for the Indian economy.The last few months are proof that even just the threat of disruption is enough to push global crude prices higher. If that happens, India could face a bigger import bill, which means higher fuel prices, more inflation for consumers, and pressure on the rupee. Transportation, manufacturing, and household budgets all feel the impact when oil becomes expensive.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-accuses-big-oil-companies-of-gouging-american-customers-says-gasoline-prices-better-start-going-down-a-lot-faster-usa-ogas-price-today-1782274625910">Trump accuses big oil companies of 'gouging' American customers, says 'gasoline prices better start going down a lot faster'</a>Notably, after months of skyrocketing prices, oil prices are finally starting to come down. On Thursday, keeping its downward trajectory, Brent crude fell more than one per cent, slipping below its closing level on the eve of the Middle East war, as investors grow optimistic about US-Iran peace talks and tankers continue through the Strait of Hormuz.The contract for August hit a low of $72.44 a barrel, compared with the February 27 close of $72.48. Brent soared as high as $119 in the weeks after the United States and Israel began their strikes on Iran on February 28.<h2>Shipping lanes could come under stress</h2>The next concern for India, if tensions flare up further, is trade routes. A wider conflict could affect the Persian Gulf and nearby waters, especially the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of the world's oil passes.If shipping is disrupted or tanker movement slows, freight and insurance costs can rise quickly. That would make energy imports more expensive and could delay supplies heading to India.<h2>India's diaspora and the Gulf connection</h2>Millions of Indians live and work across Gulf countries, and any regional conflict immediately raises concerns for expatriates. It can affect travel, job security and remittance flows back home. Notably, for India, Gulf remittances remain an important source of foreign exchange.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/violating-vessels-will-be-dealt-with-irgc-warns-ships-to-stick-to-designated-routes-in-strait-of-hormuz-as-traffic-picks-up-imo-route-1782356695025">'Violating vessels will be dealt with': IRGC warns ships to stick to designated routes in Strait of Hormuz as traffic picks up</a><h2>India could be forced to walk the tightrope longer</h2>India has long tried to maintain good relations with all major players in the region. While Israel is a defence and technology partner, for India, Iran matters for connectivity projects and access to Central Asia. Finally, Gulf Arab states remain key suppliers of energy and capital.A prolonged conflict makes that balancing act harder.<h2>Strategic projects could slow down</h2>Finally, the instability could also affect major connectivity plans, including the Chabahar Port in Iran and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. If tensions rise further, investor confidence could weaken, and trade plans could be delayed.For now, India's biggest immediate concern may be energy security. But the wider risk is a bigger war in West Asia, which could ripple into India's economy, its trade routes and its long-term regional strategy.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. &nbsp;

Fresh clashes between Israel and Hezbollah are raising fears of another West Asia crisis just as regional tensions appeared to be easing. For India, the stakes go far beyond diplomacy, with potential risks to energy security, shipping routes, trade, and key strategic projects. WION Decodes.

A fresh flare-up between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon is once again raising alarms across the globe, and for India, the concern goes well beyond diplomacy. An Israeli strike on a vehicle in southern Lebanon killed two people on Wednesday (Jun 24), Lebanese state media reported, with Hezbollah calling it another violation of the truce between the two sides. The Israeli military, meanwhile, said it had targeted armed Hezbollah operatives who posed a threat and later struck a vehicle carrying suspects. Also read | US-Iran peace deal: Inside the 14-point MoU that ended over 108 days of war | WION Decodes One might say that this comes before the ink on the paper of the 14-point MoU between the United States and Iran could even dry. The incident is the latest reminder that even when the wider war appears to cool on paper, the risk of renewed escalation remains very real. For India, if the tensions between Israel and Hezbollah continue to flare up, it could mean a problem with direct economic and strategic consequences. Why? WION Decodes. Oil prices are the first worry India imports more than 85 per cent of its crude oil needs, much of it from West Asia. That makes any regional conflict involving Iran, Israel and Hezbollah a major concern for the Indian economy. The last few months are proof that even just the threat of disruption is enough to push global crude prices higher. If that happens, India could face a bigger import bill, which means higher fuel prices, more inflation for consumers, and pressure on the rupee. Transportation, manufacturing, and household budgets all feel the impact when oil becomes expensive. Also read | Trump accuses big oil companies of 'gouging' American customers, says 'gasoline prices better start going down a lot faster' Notably, after months of skyrocketing prices, oil prices are finally starting to come down. On Thursday, keeping its downward trajectory, Brent crude fell more than one per cent, slipping below its closing level on the eve of the Middle East war, as investors grow optimistic about US-Iran peace talks and tankers continue through the Strait of Hormuz. The contract for August hit a low of $72.44 a barrel, compared with the February 27 close of $72.48. Brent soared as high as $119 in the weeks after the United States and Israel began their strikes on Iran on February 28. Shipping lanes could come under stress The next concern for India, if tensions flare up further, is trade routes. A wider conflict could affect the Persian Gulf and nearby waters, especially the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of the world's oil passes. If shipping is disrupted or tanker movement slows, freight and insurance costs can rise quickly. That would make energy imports more expensive and could delay supplies heading to India. India's diaspora and the Gulf connection Millions of Indians live and work across Gulf countries, and any regional conflict immediately raises concerns for expatriates. It can affect travel, job security and remittance flows back home. Notably, for India, Gulf remittances remain an important source of foreign exchange. Also read | 'Violating vessels will be dealt with': IRGC warns ships to stick to designated routes in Strait of Hormuz as traffic picks up India could be forced to walk the tightrope longer India has long tried to maintain good relations with all major players in the region. While Israel is a defence and technology partner, for India, Iran matters for connectivity projects and access to Central Asia. Finally, Gulf Arab states remain key suppliers of energy and capital. A prolonged conflict makes that balancing act harder. Strategic projects could slow down Finally, the instability could also affect major connectivity plans, including the Chabahar Port in Iran and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. If tensions rise further, investor confidence could weaken, and trade plans could be delayed. For now, India's biggest immediate concern may be energy security. But the wider risk is a bigger war in West Asia, which could ripple into India's economy, its trade routes and its long-term regional strategy. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Fresh clashes between Israel and Hezbollah are raising fears of another West Asia crisis just as regional tensions appeared to be easing. For India, the stakes go far beyond diplomacy, with potential risks to energy security, shipping routes, trade, and key strategic projects. WION Decodes.

Can India withstand another West Asia crisis? How Israel-Hezbollah-Iran tensions could hit its energy security | WION Decodes

Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah continues despite a nominal ceasefire, with fresh strikes and evacuation orders heightening tensions. Israel has urged residents to leave parts of Nabatiyeh in southern Lebanon, while reports suggest U.S. President Donald Trump expressed anger over the latest escalation. The developments have raised concerns about the risk of a wider regional conflict.

Israel Orders Nabatiyeh Evacuation As Trump Reportedly Blasts Netanyahu Over Lebanon Escalation

Amid rising tensions along the border, Israel has denied reports suggesting it is planning direct negotiations with Lebanon. Israeli officials said there are currently no plans for direct talks, even as hostilities with the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah continue to escalate.


Israel-Hezbollah War: Israel Denies Plans for Direct Talks with Lebanon Amid Tensions

The Lebanese army said on Saturday it was ready to deploy its forces in the country's south, accusing Israel of "procrastination" in its withdrawal under a ceasefire, a day before the pullout deadline.
Under the terms of the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire that came into effect on November 27, the Lebanese army is to deploy alongside United Nations peacekeepers in the south as the Israeli army withdraws over a 60-day period that ends Sunday.
Hezbollah is to pull back its forces north of the Litani River -- about 30 kilometres (20 miles) from the Israeli border -- and dismantle any remaining military infrastructure in the south.
"There has been a delay at a number of stages as a result of the procrastination in the withdrawal from the Israeli enemy's side," the army said in a statement.
It said it was "ready to continue its deployment as soon as the Israeli enemy withdraws".
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Friday that the military's withdrawal would continue beyond the Sunday deadline.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-israel-releases-70-palestinian-prisoners-into-egypt-more-awaited-to-be-freed-8653174" rel="dofollow">Israel releases 200 Palestinian prisoners in exchange of four female soldiers released by Hamas</a>
"The withdrawal process is conditional upon the Lebanese army deploying in southern Lebanon and fully and effectively enforcing the agreement, with Hezbollah withdrawing beyond the Litani River," a statement from Netanyahu's office said.
"Since the ceasefire agreement has not yet been fully enforced by the Lebanese state, the gradual withdrawal process will continue in full coordination with the United States."
Ceasefire mediators the United States and France have helped monitor its implementation.
<h2>'Be cautious'</h2>
The accusation from the Lebanese army comes after UN chief Antonio Guterres called on January 17 for Israel to end its "occupation" of the south.
In a telephone call with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, Lebanon's new President Joseph Aoun spoke of the "need to oblige Israel to respect the terms of the deal in order to maintain stability in the south," his office said.
Aoun said last week that Israel must "withdraw from occupied territories in the south within the deadline set by the agreement reached on November 27".
Lebanon's army urged people to "be cautious in heading back to the southern border areas, due to the presence of mines and suspicious objects left behind" by Israeli forces.
Lebanese state news agency NNA reported that some people displaced from border areas had received international calls, purportedly from an Israeli military spokesperson, warning them not to return home.
It said several border villages had been sealed off by the Israeli army while troops carried out demolitions. It reported one resident wounded by Israeli fire.
A Lebanese government source told AFP that "caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati contacted the new US administration, warned of the gravity of Israel's attempt to circumvent the implementation of the ceasefire, and stressed the need to respect deadlines".
A Lebanese military source said Israeli forces had "completed their withdrawal from the western sector" of the south in early January, but "have not completed their withdrawal from the eastern sector as their withdrawal from the middle sector was delayed".
<h2>'Flagrant violation'</h2>
Hezbollah began exchanging low-intensity cross-border fire with the Israeli army the day after the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel by its Palestinian ally Hamas which triggered the war in Gaza.
Israel intensified its campaign against Hezbollah in September, launching a series of devastating blows against the group's leadership that saw its longtime chief Hassan Nasrallah killed in an air strike in Beirut.
Hezbollah warned on Thursday that "any violation of the 60-day deadline will be considered a flagrant violation of (the ceasefire) agreement, an infringement on Lebanese sovereignty and the occupation entering a new chapter".
It said the Lebanese state should use "all means necessary... to restore the land and wrest it from the clutches of the occupation".
A committee composed of Israeli, Lebanese, French and US delegates and a representative of UN peacekeeping force UNIFIL is tasked with ensuring any ceasefire violations are identified and dealt with.
The UN peacekeeping force has reported Israeli violations of the terms of the ceasefire.
Guterres said peacekeepers had also found more than 100 weapons caches belonging "to Hezbollah or other armed groups."
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | The accusation from the Lebanese army comes after UN chief Antonio Guterres called on January 17 for Israel to end its "occupation" of the south.

The Lebanese army said on Saturday it was ready to deploy its forces in the country's south, accusing Israel of "procrastination" in its withdrawal under a ceasefire, a day before the pullout deadline. Under the terms of the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire that came into effect on November 27, the Lebanese army is to deploy alongside United Nations peacekeepers in the south as the Israeli army withdraws over a 60-day period that ends Sunday. Hezbollah is to pull back its forces north of the Litani River -- about 30 kilometres (20 miles) from the Israeli border -- and dismantle any remaining military infrastructure in the south. "There has been a delay at a number of stages as a result of the procrastination in the withdrawal from the Israeli enemy's side," the army said in a statement. It said it was "ready to continue its deployment as soon as the Israeli enemy withdraws". Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Friday that the military's withdrawal would continue beyond the Sunday deadline. Also read | Israel releases 200 Palestinian prisoners in exchange of four female soldiers released by Hamas "The withdrawal process is conditional upon the Lebanese army deploying in southern Lebanon and fully and effectively enforcing the agreement, with Hezbollah withdrawing beyond the Litani River," a statement from Netanyahu's office said. "Since the ceasefire agreement has not yet been fully enforced by the Lebanese state, the gradual withdrawal process will continue in full coordination with the United States." Ceasefire mediators the United States and France have helped monitor its implementation. 'Be cautious' The accusation from the Lebanese army comes after UN chief Antonio Guterres called on January 17 for Israel to end its "occupation" of the south. In a telephone call with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, Lebanon's new President Joseph Aoun spoke of the "need to oblige Israel to respect the terms of the deal in order to maintain stability in the south," his office said. Aoun said last week that Israel must "withdraw from occupied territories in the south within the deadline set by the agreement reached on November 27". Lebanon's army urged people to "be cautious in heading back to the southern border areas, due to the presence of mines and suspicious objects left behind" by Israeli forces. Lebanese state news agency NNA reported that some people displaced from border areas had received international calls, purportedly from an Israeli military spokesperson, warning them not to return home. It said several border villages had been sealed off by the Israeli army while troops carried out demolitions. It reported one resident wounded by Israeli fire. A Lebanese government source told AFP that "caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati contacted the new US administration, warned of the gravity of Israel's attempt to circumvent the implementation of the ceasefire, and stressed the need to respect deadlines". A Lebanese military source said Israeli forces had "completed their withdrawal from the western sector" of the south in early January, but "have not completed their withdrawal from the eastern sector as their withdrawal from the middle sector was delayed". 'Flagrant violation' Hezbollah began exchanging low-intensity cross-border fire with the Israeli army the day after the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel by its Palestinian ally Hamas which triggered the war in Gaza. Israel intensified its campaign against Hezbollah in September, launching a series of devastating blows against the group's leadership that saw its longtime chief Hassan Nasrallah killed in an air strike in Beirut. Hezbollah warned on Thursday that "any violation of the 60-day deadline will be considered a flagrant violation of (the ceasefire) agreement, an infringement on Lebanese sovereignty and the occupation entering a new chapter". It said the Lebanese state should use "all means necessary... to restore the land and wrest it from the clutches of the occupation". A committee composed of Israeli, Lebanese, French and US delegates and a representative of UN peacekeeping force UNIFIL is tasked with ensuring any ceasefire violations are identified and dealt with. The UN peacekeeping force has reported Israeli violations of the terms of the ceasefire. Guterres said peacekeepers had also found more than 100 weapons caches belonging "to Hezbollah or other armed groups." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

West Asia crisis: Lebanon army accuses Israel of procrastination in its withdrawal under truce

Israel on Thursday (Jan 9) welcomed the election of Lebanese Army chief Joseph Aoun as Lebanon's president. The new president of Lebanon was elected after a ceasefire between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah after over a yearlong&nbsp;conflict.
In a post on X, Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said, "I hope that this choice will contribute towards stability, a better future for Lebanon and its people and to good neighbourly relations."
<h2>Lebanese Parliament elects Aoun as president</h2>
Earlier on Thursday, Lebanese Parliament elected Joseph Aou as president.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-elects-army-chief-joseph-aoun-as-president-amid-west-asia-unrest-8605349" rel="dofollow">Who is Joseph Aoun? Lebanon&rsquo;s new US-backed president</a>
Aoun fell short of the 86 votes needed in a first-round vote but crossed the threshold with 99 votes in the second round, according to Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, after lawmakers from Hezbollah and its Shi'ite ally, the&nbsp;Amal Movement, backed him.
His appointment reflected shifts in the power balance in Lebanon&nbsp;and the wider West Asia, with Hezbollah badly pummeled from last year's war with Israel, and its Syrian ally Bashar al-Assad toppled in December.
After being sworn in, Aoun said, "Today, a new phase in&nbsp;Lebanon's history begins."
Aoun said he would call for "quick parliamentary consultations" on naming a new prime minister and vowing that the state would have "a monopoly" on arms after the war between Israel and Hezbollah.
<h2>Iran, France react to Aoun's election</h2>
The Iranian embassy in Beirut welcomed the election of Joseph Aoun as Lebanese president, expressing hopes for close cooperation between the two countries.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-divert-95-million-military-aid-to-lebanon-from-egypt-8600781" rel="dofollow">US to divert $95 million military aid to Lebanon from Egypt</a>
France, meanwhile, congratulated Aoun and urged the formation of a strong government.
"We... are committed to working closely with President Aoun as he begins his efforts to unite the country, implement reforms and secure a prosperous future for&nbsp;Lebanon," the US embassy in Lebanon said in a post on X.&nbsp;
Qatar praised Aoun's appointment and called for stability in Lebanon.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | Middle East: On Jan 9, Joseph Aou was made the president of Lebanon amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.


Israel on Thursday (Jan 9) welcomed the election of Lebanese Army chief Joseph Aoun as Lebanon's president. The new president of Lebanon was elected after a ceasefire between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah after over a yearlong conflict. In a post on X, Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said, "I hope that this choice will contribute towards stability, a better future for Lebanon and its people and to good neighbourly relations." Lebanese Parliament elects Aoun as president Earlier on Thursday, Lebanese Parliament elected Joseph Aou as president. Also read | Who is Joseph Aoun? Lebanon’s new US-backed president Aoun fell short of the 86 votes needed in a first-round vote but crossed the threshold with 99 votes in the second round, according to Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, after lawmakers from Hezbollah and its Shi'ite ally, the Amal Movement, backed him. His appointment reflected shifts in the power balance in Lebanon and the wider West Asia, with Hezbollah badly pummeled from last year's war with Israel, and its Syrian ally Bashar al-Assad toppled in December. After being sworn in, Aoun said, "Today, a new phase in Lebanon's history begins." Aoun said he would call for "quick parliamentary consultations" on naming a new prime minister and vowing that the state would have "a monopoly" on arms after the war between Israel and Hezbollah. Iran, France react to Aoun's election The Iranian embassy in Beirut welcomed the election of Joseph Aoun as Lebanese president, expressing hopes for close cooperation between the two countries. Also read | US to divert $95 million military aid to Lebanon from Egypt France, meanwhile, congratulated Aoun and urged the formation of a strong government. "We... are committed to working closely with President Aoun as he begins his efforts to unite the country, implement reforms and secure a prosperous future for Lebanon," the US embassy in Lebanon said in a post on X. Qatar praised Aoun's appointment and called for stability in Lebanon. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Hope new Lebanon president will help achieve 'stability,' says Israel

There seems no near end to the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.&nbsp;
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah resumed a year ago when the militant group began firing rockets at Israel in support of Palestinian terrorist group Hamas that started the Gaza war.
Israel has killed top leaders of the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group,&nbsp;including Hassan Nasrallah.
<h2>A deep infiltration into Hezbollah</h2>
On Sunday (Dec 29), American media reported that Israel's spy network had infiltrated very deeply into all aspects of Hezbollah's leadership, so much so that Tel Aviv found out about one senior Hezbollah commander's four mistresses and his desperate plan to marry them.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-blasts-work-began-on-weaponising-walkie-talkies-over-a-decade-ago-say-ex-mossad-agents-786215" rel="dofollow">Lebanon blasts: Work began on weaponising walkie-talkies over a decade ago, say ex-Mossad agents</a>
Israeli intelligence recruited people to plant listening devices in Hezbollah bunkers and also had near-constant visibility into the movements of the group's leaders.
<h2>The Hezbollah leader and his marriage proposal</h2>
According to a report by The New York Times (NYT), the Hezbollah commander who decided to marry four women over the telephone&nbsp;was identified as Fuad Shukr.
Shukr, a co-founder of Hezbollah, was a key figure in the militant group's command chain. He was killed in an Israeli airstrike in July.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-minister-katz-threatens-to-crush-hezbollahs-head-if-they-violates-ceasefire-785988" rel="dofollow">Israeli minister Katz threatens to 'crush Hezbollah's head' if it violates ceasefire</a>
Israeli and European officials familiar with the developments told NYT that Shukr juggled four different mistresses&mdash;something he allegedly felt guilty about and sought to correct by marrying all four of them.
<h2>Shukr sought help from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric</h2>
Shukr's extramarital affairs&nbsp;were kept hidden until he sought help earlier this year from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric, Hashem Safieddine.
Safieddine, who was also killed in an airstrike after being named successor to Hassan Nasrallah, allegedly gave Shukr advice.&nbsp;
The cleric then set up four separate over-the-phone wedding ceremonies for Shukr and each of his mistresses. 
The NYT report also said that it was not known when the wedding ceremonies took place, but the unions did not last for long.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World: The Hezbollah commander who decided to marry four women over the telephone was identified as Fuad Shukr. He was killed in an Israeli airstrike earlier this year. 

There seems no near end to the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah resumed a year ago when the militant group began firing rockets at Israel in support of Palestinian terrorist group Hamas that started the Gaza war. Israel has killed top leaders of the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group, including Hassan Nasrallah. A deep infiltration into Hezbollah On Sunday (Dec 29), American media reported that Israel's spy network had infiltrated very deeply into all aspects of Hezbollah's leadership, so much so that Tel Aviv found out about one senior Hezbollah commander's four mistresses and his desperate plan to marry them. Also read | Lebanon blasts: Work began on weaponising walkie-talkies over a decade ago, say ex-Mossad agents Israeli intelligence recruited people to plant listening devices in Hezbollah bunkers and also had near-constant visibility into the movements of the group's leaders. The Hezbollah leader and his marriage proposal According to a report by The New York Times (NYT), the Hezbollah commander who decided to marry four women over the telephone was identified as Fuad Shukr. Shukr, a co-founder of Hezbollah, was a key figure in the militant group's command chain. He was killed in an Israeli airstrike in July. Also read | Israeli minister Katz threatens to 'crush Hezbollah's head' if it violates ceasefire Israeli and European officials familiar with the developments told NYT that Shukr juggled four different mistresses—something he allegedly felt guilty about and sought to correct by marrying all four of them. Shukr sought help from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric Shukr's extramarital affairs were kept hidden until he sought help earlier this year from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric, Hashem Safieddine. Safieddine, who was also killed in an airstrike after being named successor to Hassan Nasrallah, allegedly gave Shukr advice. The cleric then set up four separate over-the-phone wedding ceremonies for Shukr and each of his mistresses. The NYT report also said that it was not known when the wedding ceremonies took place, but the unions did not last for long. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel finds THIS Hezbollah commander's desparate plan to marry four women: Report

Tel Aviv
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The conflict between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah resumed a year ago when the militant group began firing rockets at Israel in support of Palestinian militants Hamas at the start of the Gaza war.
In September this year, thousands of pagers and walkie-talkies belonging to Hezbollah members exploded across Lebanon's south, killing 40 people and injuring over 3,000 others.
Last month, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accepted that he had okayed the explosions in Lebanon. Now, two former agents of Mossad said that the Israeli spy agency spent years orchestrating the plot.
<h2>Waging war through deception and trickery</h2>
According to a report by CBS News early Monday (Dec 23), the two recently retired Mossad agents were among those who spearheaded the years-long operation against Hezbollah.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-admits-he-okayed-lebanon-pager-blasts-reveals-three-recent-calls-with-trump-on-iran-775056">Netanyahu admits he ‘okayed’ Lebanon pager blasts; talked to US President-elect Trump thrice on Iran threat</a>
The report said that Mossad's walkie-talkie operation was waging war through deception and trickery, in line with the spy agency's motto. 
Work began on weaponizing the walkie-talkies more than a decade before Israel set them off in September, the report added.
One of the agents, who identified himself as Michael, said that the walkie-talkie was a weapon, "just like a bullet or a missile or a mortar."
Michael said that the battery of the walkie-talkie, which was made in a Mossad facility, included an explosive device. Hezbollah bought more than 16,000 of the exploding devices, some of which were eventually used against them, he added.
The report said that the price of the walkie-talkie could not be too low as Israel did not want Hezbollah to be suspicious. 
Mossad also wanted to hide its identity as the seller and ensure the walkie-talkies couldn't be traced back to Israel. So the spy agency set up shell companies to infiltrate the supply chain.
<h2>Walkie-talkies were just not enough</h2>
CBS News reported that the walkie-talkies were designed to go into the chest pocket of a tactical vest for soldiers.
However, Mossad wanted to plant a device that Hezbollah members would have on them at all times. Hence, the agency began development on booby-trapped pagers in 2022, the second ex-Mossad agent (who chose to identify himself as Gabriel) said.
Gabriel said Mossad learnt that Hezbollah was buying pagers from Gold Apollo, a company based in Taiwan. 
The Gold Apollo pagers were sleek, and shiny and could fit into pockets. Mossad needed a larger pager to fit explosives inside, he added.
Also watch | Gravitas: Hezbollah rebuilds for next conflict with Israel
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Gabriel said that using dummies, Mossad carried out tests with the pager inside a padded glove, held next to the dummy's face, to calibrate the grammes of powdered explosive needed to be just enough to hurt the fighter, but not the person next to him.
The retired Mossad agent said that the plan was to hurt Hezbollah members (with pagers), not people nearby. 
<h2>Shell companies set up</h2>
After convincing Mossad head Dadi Barnea of the pager's merits, Gabriel pointed out that the pager was advertised in fake ads on YouTube. 
The device was touted as being robust, dustproof, waterproof, and also having a long battery life. Gabriel said that Mossad did such a good job promoting the pager that people outside of Hezbollah wanted to buy it.
He added that Israel set up shell companies to dupe Gold Apollo. Mossad fully manufactured the pagers and had a licensing partnership with Gold Apollo. 
"When they (Hezbollah) are buying from us, they have zero clue that they are buying from the Mossad...," Gabriel said.
(With inputs from agencies)

Last month, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accepted that he had okayed the explosions in Lebanon. Now, two former agents of Mossad said that the Israeli spy agency spent years orchestrating the plot.



Tel Aviv The conflict between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah resumed a year ago when the militant group began firing rockets at Israel in support of Palestinian militants Hamas at the start of the Gaza war. In September this year, thousands of pagers and walkie-talkies belonging to Hezbollah members exploded across Lebanon's south, killing 40 people and injuring over 3,000 others. Last month, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accepted that he had okayed the explosions in Lebanon. Now, two former agents of Mossad said that the Israeli spy agency spent years orchestrating the plot. Waging war through deception and trickery According to a report by CBS News early Monday (Dec 23), the two recently retired Mossad agents were among those who spearheaded the years-long operation against Hezbollah. Also read | Netanyahu admits he ‘okayed’ Lebanon pager blasts; talked to US President-elect Trump thrice on Iran threat The report said that Mossad's walkie-talkie operation was waging war through deception and trickery, in line with the spy agency's motto. Work began on weaponizing the walkie-talkies more than a decade before Israel set them off in September, the report added. One of the agents, who identified himself as Michael, said that the walkie-talkie was a weapon, "just like a bullet or a missile or a mortar." Michael said that the battery of the walkie-talkie, which was made in a Mossad facility, included an explosive device. Hezbollah bought more than 16,000 of the exploding devices, some of which were eventually used against them, he added. The report said that the price of the walkie-talkie could not be too low as Israel did not want Hezbollah to be suspicious. Mossad also wanted to hide its identity as the seller and ensure the walkie-talkies couldn't be traced back to Israel. So the spy agency set up shell companies to infiltrate the supply chain. Walkie-talkies were just not enough CBS News reported that the walkie-talkies were designed to go into the chest pocket of a tactical vest for soldiers. However, Mossad wanted to plant a device that Hezbollah members would have on them at all times. Hence, the agency began development on booby-trapped pagers in 2022, the second ex-Mossad agent (who chose to identify himself as Gabriel) said. Gabriel said Mossad learnt that Hezbollah was buying pagers from Gold Apollo, a company based in Taiwan. The Gold Apollo pagers were sleek, and shiny and could fit into pockets. Mossad needed a larger pager to fit explosives inside, he added. Also watch | Gravitas: Hezbollah rebuilds for next conflict with Israel Gabriel said that using dummies, Mossad carried out tests with the pager inside a padded glove, held next to the dummy's face, to calibrate the grammes of powdered explosive needed to be just enough to hurt the fighter, but not the person next to him. The retired Mossad agent said that the plan was to hurt Hezbollah members (with pagers), not people nearby. Shell companies set up After convincing Mossad head Dadi Barnea of the pager's merits, Gabriel pointed out that the pager was advertised in fake ads on YouTube. The device was touted as being robust, dustproof, waterproof, and also having a long battery life. Gabriel said that Mossad did such a good job promoting the pager that people outside of Hezbollah wanted to buy it. He added that Israel set up shell companies to dupe Gold Apollo. Mossad fully manufactured the pagers and had a licensing partnership with Gold Apollo. "When they (Hezbollah) are buying from us, they have zero clue that they are buying from the Mossad...," Gabriel said. (With inputs from agencies)

Lebanon blasts: Work began on weaponising walkie-talkies over a decade ago, say ex-Mossad agents

The conflict between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah resumed a year ago when the militant group began firing rockets at Israel in support of Palestinian militants Hamas at the start of the Gaza war.

The conflict between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah resumed a year ago when the militant group began firing rockets at Israel in support of Palestinian militants Hamas at the start of the Gaza war. In September this year, thousands of pagers and walkie-talkies belonging to Hezbollah members exploded across Lebanon's south, killing 40 people and injuring over 3,000 others. Last month, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accepted that he had okayed the explosions in Lebanon. Now, two former agents of Mossad said that the Israeli spy agency spent years orchestrating the plot. Waging war through deception and trickery According to a report by CBS News early Monday (Dec 23), the two recently retired Mossad agents were among those who spearheaded the years-long operation against Hezbollah. Also read | Netanyahu admits he ‘okayed’ Lebanon pager blasts; talked to US President-elect Trump thrice on Iran threat The report said that Mossad's walkie-talkie operation was waging war through deception and trickery, in line with the spy agency's motto. Work began on weaponizing the walkie-talkies more than a decade before Israel set them off in September, the report added. One of the agents, who identified himself as Michael, said that the walkie-talkie was a weapon, "just like a bullet or a missile or a mortar." Michael said that the battery of the walkie-talkie, which was made in a Mossad facility, included an explosive device. Hezbollah bought more than 16,000 of the exploding devices, some of which were eventually used against them, he added. The report said that the price of the walkie-talkie could not be too low as Israel did not want Hezbollah to be suspicious. Mossad also wanted to hide its identity as the seller and ensure the walkie-talkies couldn't be traced back to Israel. So the spy agency set up shell companies to infiltrate the supply chain. Walkie-talkies were just not enough CBS News reported that the walkie-talkies were designed to go into the chest pocket of a tactical vest for soldiers. However, Mossad wanted to plant a device that Hezbollah members would have on them at all times. Hence, the agency began development on booby-trapped pagers in 2022, the second ex-Mossad agent (who chose to identify himself as Gabriel) said. Gabriel said Mossad learnt that Hezbollah was buying pagers from Gold Apollo, a company based in Taiwan. The Gold Apollo pagers were sleek, and shiny and could fit into pockets. Mossad needed a larger pager to fit explosives inside, he added. Also watch | Gravitas: Hezbollah rebuilds for next conflict with Israel Gabriel said that using dummies, Mossad carried out tests with the pager inside a padded glove, held next to the dummy's face, to calibrate the grammes of powdered explosive needed to be just enough to hurt the fighter, but not the person next to him. The retired Mossad agent said that the plan was to hurt Hezbollah members (with pagers), not people nearby. Shell companies set up After convincing Mossad head Dadi Barnea of the pager's merits, Gabriel pointed out that the pager was advertised in fake ads on YouTube. The device was touted as being robust, dustproof, waterproof, and also having a long battery life. Gabriel said that Mossad did such a good job promoting the pager that people outside of Hezbollah wanted to buy it. He added that Israel set up shell companies to dupe Gold Apollo. Mossad fully manufactured the pagers and had a licensing partnership with Gold Apollo. "When they (Hezbollah) are buying from us, they have zero clue that they are buying from the Mossad...," Gabriel said. (With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli government is set to approve a plan for a ceasefire with the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah, according to reports. Watch this report for more details!

Israel: Will Act Forcefully if Lebanon Truce Deal is Breached

Israel-Hezbollah War: Israel to Decide on Lebanon Ceasefire

Israel-Hezbollah War: Israel Set to Approve Ceasefire With Lebanon's Hezbollah

Lebanon’s health ministry says Israeli strikes killed at least 31 people across the war-battered country on Monday. Watch this report for more details!

Israel-Hezbollah War: Israeli Strikes Kills 31 in Lebanon in a Day, Hezbollah Responds With Rockets

Israel and Lebanon are on the verge of a ceasefire deal to end the conflict between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, Axios reported on Monday (Nov 25) citing two Israeli and two US officials.

Israel and Lebanon are on the verge of a ceasefire deal to end the conflict between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, Axios reported on Monday (Nov 25) citing two Israeli and two US officials. Israel and Hezbollah have exchanged fire for over a year in parallel with the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip, which began on October 7, 2023. Also read | Hezbollah using 'copy' of Israeli missile in war with IDF: Report In more than a year of fighting, over 3,500 people have been killed in Lebanon and more than 15,000 have been injured. A look at the expected ceasefire deal > The Axios report on Monday said that the expected ceasefire deal included a 60-day transition period during which Israeli troops would withdraw from southern Lebanon, the Lebanese Army would be deployed in areas close to the border, and Hezbollah would move its heavy weapons north of the Litani River. > The deal included a US-led oversight committee to monitor implementation and address violations. > The Israeli and American officials told the publication that Washington agreed to give Israel a letter of assurances that included support for Israeli troops' action against imminent threats from Lebanese territory, and for action to disrupt things like the reestablishment of a Hezbollah military presence near the border or the smuggling of heavy weapons. > Axios further reported that as per the deal, Israel would take such action following consultations with the US, and if Lebanon did not deal with the threat. The deal was nearing completion last Thursday (Nov 21) when the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. 'End to Israel-Hezbollah conflict within our grasp' Last week, a senior American mediator said that there was a "real opportunity" to end the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Also watch | WION Fineprint: Won't accept truce deal with Israel, says Hezbollah chief × US mediator Amos Hochstein held talks with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri in Beirut, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Following the meeting, Hochstein told reporters, "I came back because we have a real opportunity to bring this conflict to an end." "It is now within our grasp. As the window is now, I hope the coming days yield a resolute decision," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Israel, Lebanon are on verge of ceasefire deal to end Israel-Hezbollah conflict, says report

Israel and Lebanon are on the cusp of a ceasefire deal to end the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, Axios reported early Monday (Nov 25) citing Israeli and American officials. The expected ceasefire deal included a 60-day transition period during which Israeli troops would withdraw from southern Lebanon, and the Lebanese Army would be deployed in areas close to the border.

In India, the Winter Session of Parliament will begin later on Monday. Opposition parties will corner the Modi government on issues such as the Adani bribery case and the ongoing violence in Manipur.

In other news from around the world, the Congress in India has called Sunday's violence in the UP district of Sambhal a planned conspiracy.&nbsp;The violence in Sambhal erupted earlier on Sunday during a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid. Three people were killed and 20 others were injured.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-lebanon-are-on-verge-of-ceasefire-deal-to-end-israel-hezbollah-conflict-says-report-778964">West Asia crisis: Israel, Lebanon are on verge of ceasefire deal to end Israel-Hezbollah conflict, says report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/25/467810-untitled.png?imwidth=400" />

Israel and Lebanon are on the verge of a ceasefire deal to end the conflict between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, Axios reported on Monday (Nov 25) citing two Israeli and two US officials.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-parliament-winter-session-to-begin-today-opposition-to-corner-centre-on-adani-case-manipur-violence-778955">Indian Parliament Winter Session to begin today; opposition to corner Centre on Adani case, Manipur violence</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/06/410303-untitled-design-2024-02-06t130415136.png?imwidth=400" />

The winter session of Parliament will commence on Monday (November 25) and run until 20 December. During this period, multiple bills, including the Waqf Act (Amendment) Bill, are expected to be tabled for discussion.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sambhal-violence-cong-calls-incident-a-planned-conspiracy-security-tightened-outside-mosque-778972">Sambhal violence: Cong calls incident a 'planned conspiracy'; security tightened outside mosque</a>

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The opposition Congress party in India said on Sunday (Nov 24) that the violence in the Uttar Pradesh's (UP) Sambhal district was a "well-planned conspiracy." The violence in Sambhal erupted earlier on Sunday during a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/storm-bert-batters-much-of-britain-again-at-least-three-people-killed-778974">Storm Bert batters much of Britain again, at least three people killed</a>

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Strong winds and heavy rain from storm Bert battered much of Britain again on Sunday, causing "devastating" flooding in particular in Wales, with around 100 flood alerts in place nationwide, authorities said.

Watch | World DNA: Israeli Rabbi murdered in UAE

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Israel and Lebanon are on the cusp of a ceasefire deal to end the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, Axios reported early Monday (Nov 25) citing Israeli and American officials.

Israel and Lebanon are on the cusp of a ceasefire deal to end the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, Axios reported early Monday (Nov 25) citing Israeli and American officials. The expected ceasefire deal included a 60-day transition period during which Israeli troops would withdraw from southern Lebanon, and the Lebanese Army would be deployed in areas close to the border. In India, the Winter Session of Parliament will begin later on Monday. Opposition parties will corner the Modi government on issues such as the Adani bribery case and the ongoing violence in Manipur. In other news from around the world, the Congress in India has called Sunday's violence in the UP district of Sambhal a planned conspiracy. The violence in Sambhal erupted earlier on Sunday during a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid. Three people were killed and 20 others were injured. Click on the headlines to read more: West Asia crisis: Israel, Lebanon are on verge of ceasefire deal to end Israel-Hezbollah conflict, says report Israel and Lebanon are on the verge of a ceasefire deal to end the conflict between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, Axios reported on Monday (Nov 25) citing two Israeli and two US officials. Indian Parliament Winter Session to begin today; opposition to corner Centre on Adani case, Manipur violence The winter session of Parliament will commence on Monday (November 25) and run until 20 December. During this period, multiple bills, including the Waqf Act (Amendment) Bill, are expected to be tabled for discussion. Sambhal violence: Cong calls incident a 'planned conspiracy'; security tightened outside mosque The opposition Congress party in India said on Sunday (Nov 24) that the violence in the Uttar Pradesh's (UP) Sambhal district was a "well-planned conspiracy." The violence in Sambhal erupted earlier on Sunday during a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid. Storm Bert batters much of Britain again, at least three people killed Strong winds and heavy rain from storm Bert battered much of Britain again on Sunday, causing "devastating" flooding in particular in Wales, with around 100 flood alerts in place nationwide, authorities said. Watch | World DNA: Israeli Rabbi murdered in UAE ×

Morning brief: West Asia crisis updates; Indian Parliament Winter Session to begin today, and more

Israel has expressed the need for the freedom to strike Hezbollah in the future, emphasizing its right to defend itself amid ongoing tensions with the militant group. The statement highlights Israel's concerns over potential threats from Hezbollah in the region.

Israel-Hezbollah War: Want Freedom To Hit Hezbollah In The Future Says Israel

US has multiplied its efforts to attain a ceasefire here. Hezbollah says it will attack Israel's Tel Aviv, in response to Israel's strikes on Beirut. Hezbollah chief says the ball is in Israel's court. If it doesn't attack Lebanon's sovereignty, there will be a truce.

Israel Says It Wants Freedom to Attack Hezbollah

Hezbollah Leader Naim Qassem in a defiant speech on Wednesday (Nov 20) rejected Israel's conditions for a ceasefire in Lebanon, asserting that Israel "cannot impose its conditions".

The Hezbollah leader's statement comes as US envoy Amos Hochstein headed to Israel to try to negotiate an end to the war.

Qassem, in his address, asserted, "Israel cannot defeat us and cannot impose its conditions on us."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firepower-dramatically-reduced-idf-eliminates-hezbollahs-anti-tank-missile-commanders-777811">‘Firepower dramatically reduced,’ IDF eliminates Hezbollah’s anti-tank missile commanders</a>

He added that his group was seeking a "complete and comprehensive end to the aggression" and "the preservation of Lebanon's sovereignty".

Qassem also vowed that Hezbollah will respond to the recent deadly Israeli air strikes on Beirut with an attack on "central Tel Aviv", Israel's densely populated commercial hub.

<h2>Israel has 'freedom to act' against Hezbollah</h2>

In a near-simultaneous statement to Qassem's, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said that any ceasefire deal must ensure that Israel still has the "freedom to act" against the militant group Hezbollah.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-us-blocks-un-push-calling-for-ceasefire-in-gaza-777763">Israel-Hamas war: US blocks UN push calling for ceasefire in Gaza</a>

<h2>Hochstein's mediation efforts</h2>

US mediator Amos Hochstein, as per reports, announced plans to travel to Israel after discussions in Beirut aimed at brokering a ceasefire.&nbsp;

Before leaving for Israel, he met with Lebanon's Hezbollah-allied parliament speaker Nabih Berri, who has led mediation efforts on Hezbollah's behalf.

Hochstein expressed cautious optimism and said Wednesday's meeting "made additional progress, so I will travel from here in a couple hours to Israel to try to bring this to a close if we can".

Previously, on Tuesday (Nov 19) he said that an end to the war was "within our grasp". 
&nbsp; 
The escalating conflict has had devastating consequences, with over 3,500 deaths reported in Lebanon since September, including 200 children. In Gaza, where the war initially began, the death toll from the resulting war has reached 43,985 people, a majority of them civilians.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hezbollah Leader Naim Qassem in a defiant speech on Wednesday (Nov 20) rejected Israel's conditions for a ceasefire in Lebanon, asserting that Israel "cannot impose its conditions".

Hezbollah Leader Naim Qassem in a defiant speech on Wednesday (Nov 20) rejected Israel's conditions for a ceasefire in Lebanon, asserting that Israel "cannot impose its conditions". The Hezbollah leader's statement comes as US envoy Amos Hochstein headed to Israel to try to negotiate an end to the war. Qassem, in his address, asserted, "Israel cannot defeat us and cannot impose its conditions on us." Also read | ‘Firepower dramatically reduced,’ IDF eliminates Hezbollah’s anti-tank missile commanders He added that his group was seeking a "complete and comprehensive end to the aggression" and "the preservation of Lebanon's sovereignty". Qassem also vowed that Hezbollah will respond to the recent deadly Israeli air strikes on Beirut with an attack on "central Tel Aviv", Israel's densely populated commercial hub. Israel has 'freedom to act' against Hezbollah In a near-simultaneous statement to Qassem's, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said that any ceasefire deal must ensure that Israel still has the "freedom to act" against the militant group Hezbollah. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: US blocks UN push calling for ceasefire in Gaza Hochstein's mediation efforts US mediator Amos Hochstein, as per reports, announced plans to travel to Israel after discussions in Beirut aimed at brokering a ceasefire. Before leaving for Israel, he met with Lebanon's Hezbollah-allied parliament speaker Nabih Berri, who has led mediation efforts on Hezbollah's behalf. Hochstein expressed cautious optimism and said Wednesday's meeting "made additional progress, so I will travel from here in a couple hours to Israel to try to bring this to a close if we can". Previously, on Tuesday (Nov 19) he said that an end to the war was "within our grasp". The escalating conflict has had devastating consequences, with over 3,500 deaths reported in Lebanon since September, including 200 children. In Gaza, where the war initially began, the death toll from the resulting war has reached 43,985 people, a majority of them civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

'Israel cannot defeat us': Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem rejects ceasefire terms

Lebanon-based Hezbollah has claimed to have launched an attack on the Israeli city of Tel Aviv. According to reports, several explosions rocked Tel Aviv in which one got killed and at least five people were injured. The recent attacks came in the aftermath of the recent Israeli strike on Beirut that killed Hezbollah's media chief. Watch this video to find out more.

'Fire to Fire': Hezbollah Strikes Tel Aviv in Response to Israel's Beirut Strikes | GRAVITAS

US special envoy Amos Hochstein said on a visit to Beirut that an end to the Israel-Hezbollah war was "now within our grasp" as he met with officials to discuss a truce plan largely endorsed by Lebanon. Watch this report for more details!

US Envoy: Lebanon Ceasefire Within Our Grasp

US Envoy: Within Our Grasp to End Israel-Hezbollah War

Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah group said Monday it had launched explosive-laden drones at military targets in Tel Aviv, as Israeli rescuers said five people were injured by rocket fire in the city suburbs.

Israel-Hezbollah War: Hezbollah Launches Attack Drones at Tel Aviv Military Targets

Israeli latest airstrikes in Lebanon caused at least 11 people to be killed and 48 others injured. The strikes are part of a series of escalating attacks between Israel and Hezbollah, following earlier military operations in the area.

Israel-Hezbollah War: 11 Killed, 48 Wounded in Israeli Strikes in Lebanon's South

Israeli ground forces have reached their deepest point in Lebanon since they invaded the country on October 1, the news agency Associated Press reported on Sunday (Nov 17) citing Lebanese state media.

Israeli ground forces have reached their deepest point in Lebanon since they invaded the country on October 1, the news agency Associated Press reported on Sunday (Nov 17) citing Lebanese state media. According to state media, Israeli forces briefly captured a strategic hill in the southern village of Chamaa, about five kilometres from the border. The troops blew up the Shrine of Shimon the Prophet in Chamaa as well as several homes, but this could not be verified. The Israel-Hezbollah conflict Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah have exchanged fire for over a year in parallel with the Gaza war. But fighting has escalated since late September, with Israel intensifying bombing on swathes of Lebanon's south and east and making ground incursions into border villages. Also read | Two flash bombs fired towards Israeli PM Netanyahu's home in Caesarea Amid the above claims from Lebanese state media, the Israeli military said in a statement that its troops continued limited and localised operations in southern Lebanon. State media also reported that Israeli warplanes pounded Beirut’s southern suburbs known as Dahiyeh, a Hezbollah stronghold, and several other areas including the port city of Tyre. Death toll in conflict rises to 3,452 The death toll due to the ongoing conflict in Lebanon has climbed to 3,452 and more than 14,600 people have been injured, the Lebanese health ministry said on Saturday. Also watch | Israel's mixed signals over Lebanon truce × In the latest news from the conflict, an Israeli strike hit south Beirut on Sunday where the military said it targeted Hezbollah, hours after the Lebanese militant group said it fired on Israeli bases around the city of Haifa. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis | Israeli forces reached their deepest point in Lebanon since Oct 1 invasion: State media

Lebanon said on Friday (Nov 15) that it was studying a United States (US) truce proposal for the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.

Lebanon said on Friday (Nov 15) that it was studying a United States (US) truce proposal for the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. Israel and Hezbollah have exchanged fire for over a year in parallel with the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip. Speaking to the news agency AFP, a Lebanese government official said US Ambassador Lisa Johnson discussed with senior Lebanese officials on Thursday a 13-point proposal. The official said that the proposal included a 60-day truce, during which Lebanon would redeploy troops to the border. The official also said that Israel was yet to respond to the plan. What has Israel demanded for a truce deal? Israel has put forward three requirements for the ceasefire agreement: Hezbollah needs to withdraw to the area north of the Litani River; the southern area of Lebanon needs to be stationed by the Lebanese Armed Forces; and Hezbollah is not allowed to obtain weapons through Syria. Also read | West Asia crisis- 'Rushing to advance ceasefire deal in Lebanon,' Israel tells Trump: Report If Hezbollah does not agree to the aforementioned three requirements and launches attacks against Israel, the Israeli army will continue and even expand its military operations. Death toll in Israel-Hezbollah conflict climbs to over 3,440 AFP reported on Saturday that the death toll in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict has climbed to more than 3,440 and thousands of others have been injured. On Friday, heavy Israeli strikes hit south Beirut after the Israeli military issued an evacuation call in the region. Repeated Israeli air strikes on south Beirut have led to a mass exodus of civilians from the Hezbollah stronghold, although some return during the day to check on their homes and businesses. A building in Beirut's southern suburbs collapsed in a gigantic cloud of smoke and dust, as two strikes attributed to Israel hit the Hezbollah bastion on Friday. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Lebanon says it's studying US truce proposal in Israel-Hezbollah conflict

Israeli forces launched fresh strikes across southern & central Lebanon, including the suburb of Beirut. The strike occurred after the Israeli army told residents of parts of the south suburbs to leave. Watch this report for more details!

Israel-Hezbollah War: Israel Pounds Beirut's Southern Suburbs