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

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a high-level task force led by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani to recommend reforms for India's examination system. The panel will submit recommendations aimed at strengthening transparency and efficiency in national exams.

Meanwhile, global tensions continue to rise. An oil tanker reportedly exploded in the Strait of Hormuz after hitting a sea mine, while Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed to have downed a Saudi drone. Lebanon accused Israel of obstructing troop deployment in the south, and the UN chief called for the immediate removal of sanctions on Syria. Ukraine and Russia exchanged fresh attacks, Romania summoned Russia's ambassador after shooting down another drone, China witnessed deadly flash floods, and Australia vowed to challenge proposed US tariffs.

PM Modi Announces Exam Reform Task Force | Iran Tanker Blast | Ukraine War | Houthi Attack

Top headlines:
1) Iran launches drone attacks targeting US military bases in Kuwait and Bahrain in retaliation for recent American strikes.
2) Iran's Revolutionary Guards claim ballistic missile strikes on a US airbase in Jordan following US attacks inside Iran.
3) US military releases official footage of its latest wave of airstrikes targeting Iranian command centers, missile sites, air defenses, drone infrastructure and coastal military facilities.
4) Israel confirms it will maintain military forces inside security zones across Lebanon, Syria and Gaza to counter regional threats.
5) Russia launches fresh ballistic missile strikes on Kyiv, killing civilians and injuring several others, including a child.
6) UK economy returns to growth in May despite continuing geopolitical uncertainty and elevated energy prices.

Watch the latest international news updates, geopolitical analysis and breaking headlines from around the world.

Iran strikes US bases | Russia bombards Kyiv | Israel holds security zones | UK economy grows 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed that some Christian villages in Lebanon have expressed interest in being annexed by Israel, triggering fresh debate across the region. The remarks come amid ongoing tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border and have drawn attention to the complex political, religious, and security dynamics at play. This episode of Gravitas explores Netanyahu's claims, the reactions they have generated, and the potential implications for Israel-Lebanon relations and regional stability.

Netanyahu wants to annex Christian villages in Lebanon 

The Israeli military said on Sunday (Jun 28) that it had destroyed a large underground tunnel in southern Lebanon, triggering fresh tensions with Hezbollah just two days after Israel and Lebanon signed a US-backed framework agreement intended to pave the way for peace. Meanwhile, Hezbollah accused Israel of violating the ceasefire and warned that it reserved the "right to defend its homeland and its people".The developments have cast fresh doubt over the future of the deal, which seeks not only to end decades of hostility between the two countries but also to disarm the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement.According to Lebanese state media, several Israeli strikes were reported across southern Lebanon on Sunday, including in the Nabatieh area. Lebanon's health ministry said two people were wounded after an Israeli stun grenade exploded in the south.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-increase-tensions-iran-issues-fresh-warning-over-strait-of-hormuz-shipping-routes-1782694812472">'Will increase tensions': Iran issues fresh warning over Strait of Hormuz shipping routes</a><h2>Massive tunnel destroyed</h2>In a joint statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military had uncovered and destroyed an extensive Hezbollah tunnel network. "The tunnel, stretching more than 200 metres and reaching a depth of over 25 metres, contained hundreds of weapons as well as several launch shafts intended to target the State of Israel and its civilians," the statement said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🎯DISMANTLED: An underground Hezbollah terror complex in the area of Majdal Zoun, within the Security Zone in southern Lebanon. The underground complex was constructed using technology and expertise provided by the Iranian terror regime. The tunnel route was 200+ meters long and…&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://x.com/IDF/status/2071344751434244500?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Israeli officials added that Washington and the US representative in Lebanon had been informed before the operation was carried out.An AFP journalist in the coastal city of Tyre reported seeing smoke rising near the village of Majdal Zoun following the detonation. Residents in nearby towns reportedly left their homes after local media warned that Israel could carry out explosions in the area.The Israeli army later announced that one of its soldiers had been killed during combat operations in southern Lebanon. It also claimed to have killed what it described as a Hezbollah operative involved in clashes with Israeli forces.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/israel-deletes-post-promoting-ben-jerry-s-new-genocidaires-ice-cream-after-online-backlash-gaza-war-1782535460281">Israel deletes post promoting Ben &amp; Jerry's new 'Genocidaires' ice cream after online backlash</a><h2>Hezbollah slams ceasefire violation</h2>Hezbollah reacted sharply to Sunday's events. The group said Israel's actions amounted to a "blatant violation" of the ceasefire and insisted it had respected the truce until now."Hezbollah reiterates that what the enemy has done is a blatant violation of the ceasefire to which it has adhered until now," the group said, adding that it was monitoring developments and reserved the right to defend Lebanon and its people.Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, a key Hezbollah ally, criticised the framework signed by Lebanon and Israel under US sponsorship, which aims to end hostilities and create conditions for a broader peace settlement. He argued that it failed to protect Lebanon's interests. Calling it "ten times worse" than the short-lived 1983 agreement between Lebanon and Israel, Berri vowed to oppose the deal politically and warned against any attempt to impose it.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.

The US-backed Israel-Lebanon peace framework is facing its first major test after Israel said it destroyed a large Hezbollah tunnel network in southern Lebanon, prompting Hezbollah to accuse Israel of violating the ceasefire and warn that it reserves the right to respond.

The Israeli military said on Sunday (Jun 28) that it had destroyed a large underground tunnel in southern Lebanon, triggering fresh tensions with Hezbollah just two days after Israel and Lebanon signed a US-backed framework agreement intended to pave the way for peace. Meanwhile, Hezbollah accused Israel of violating the ceasefire and warned that it reserved the "right to defend its homeland and its people". The developments have cast fresh doubt over the future of the deal, which seeks not only to end decades of hostility between the two countries but also to disarm the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement. According to Lebanese state media, several Israeli strikes were reported across southern Lebanon on Sunday, including in the Nabatieh area. Lebanon's health ministry said two people were wounded after an Israeli stun grenade exploded in the south. Also read | 'Will increase tensions': Iran issues fresh warning over Strait of Hormuz shipping routes Massive tunnel destroyed In a joint statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military had uncovered and destroyed an extensive Hezbollah tunnel network. "The tunnel, stretching more than 200 metres and reaching a depth of over 25 metres, contained hundreds of weapons as well as several launch shafts intended to target the State of Israel and its civilians," the statement said.

The US-backed Israel-Lebanon peace framework is facing its first major test after Israel said it destroyed a large Hezbollah tunnel network in southern Lebanon, prompting Hezbollah to accuse Israel of violating the ceasefire and warn that it reserves the right to respond.

Israel blows up major Hezbollah tunnel packed with weapons; group says it reserves 'right to defend'

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

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Jun 21) addressed his relationship with US President Donald Trump. Rejecting the claims suggesting that US President Donald Trump influences his decisions or that he controls the Republican, he insisted that both leaders independently make decisions in the interest of their nations. This comes amid speculations about whether they influence each other’s decisions over the Iran war.Speaking at the JNS Summit in Jerusalem, Netanyahu said, “In the United States, they say that President Trump does everything that I ask him to do. And in Israel, they say that I do everything he wants me to do. Well, neither is true.”“We’re leaders of independent and proud countries. We stand for our interests. I stand for the interests of Israel and for its security,” he added.The Israeli leader acknowledged that while Trump and he have the same view on most issues, they sometimes have disagreements. Despite this, they respect each other’s sovereignty and leadership, he stressed.“Often we see eye to eye. Sometimes we don’t. But we respect each other’s sovereignty and leadership and commitment to our people,” he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-will-be-main-topic-of-discussion-tehran-says-ahead-of-us-iran-talks-in-switzerland-1782034242381">‘Lebanon will be main topic of discussion’: Tehran says ahead of US-Iran talks in Switzerland</a><h2>Troops in Lebanon to remain ‘as long as necessary’</h2>Speaking about the conflict in Lebanon, Netanyahu said that Israeli troops will stay in southern Lebanon as long as needed, despite the ceasefire reached under the US-Iran deal. He also vowed that he would not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons.“We will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as necessary to protect the cherished residents of the north and all the citizens of Israel... Nothing will alter that commitment,” he said.He continued, “And with regard to Iran: whatever political developments may unfold, I will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons. As long as I serve as prime minister of Israel, that will not happen.”Watch | US-Iran Peace Talks: US Vice President On His Connection With India &amp; Pakistan<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-peace-talks-us-vice-president-on-his-connection-with-india-pakistan-1782096108504/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-peace-talks-us-vice-president-on-his-connection-with-india-pakistan-1782096108504/embed</a>Netanyahu also reiterated that the war in the Middle East had achieved Israel’s key goal of preventing Iran from possessing a nuclear weapon.“We prevented Iran from carrying out a plan to annihilate us and today they would have had an atomic bomb to do so,” the Israeli leader said. “We prevented that from happening. We removed the existential danger. Had we not acted... Iran would have had atomic bombs and let me tell you something, they would have used them.”“That’s what we prevented,” he said.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

Israeli PM Netanyahu rejected claims that US President Donald Trump influences his decisions, saying both leaders act independently. He also vowed to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and keep troops in Lebanon.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (Jun 21) addressed his relationship with US President Donald Trump. Rejecting the claims suggesting that US President Donald Trump influences his decisions or that he controls the Republican, he insisted that both leaders independently make decisions in the interest of their nations. This comes amid speculations about whether they influence each other’s decisions over the Iran war. Speaking at the JNS Summit in Jerusalem, Netanyahu said, “In the United States, they say that President Trump does everything that I ask him to do. And in Israel, they say that I do everything he wants me to do. Well, neither is true.” “We’re leaders of independent and proud countries. We stand for our interests. I stand for the interests of Israel and for its security,” he added. The Israeli leader acknowledged that while Trump and he have the same view on most issues, they sometimes have disagreements. Despite this, they respect each other’s sovereignty and leadership, he stressed. “Often we see eye to eye. Sometimes we don’t. But we respect each other’s sovereignty and leadership and commitment to our people,” he said. Also read | ‘Lebanon will be main topic of discussion’: Tehran says ahead of US-Iran talks in Switzerland Troops in Lebanon to remain ‘as long as necessary’ Speaking about the conflict in Lebanon, Netanyahu said that Israeli troops will stay in southern Lebanon as long as needed, despite the ceasefire reached under the US-Iran deal. He also vowed that he would not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons. “We will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as necessary to protect the cherished residents of the north and all the citizens of Israel... Nothing will alter that commitment,” he said. He continued, “And with regard to Iran: whatever political developments may unfold, I will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons. As long as I serve as prime minister of Israel, that will not happen.” Watch | US-Iran Peace Talks: US Vice President On His Connection With India & Pakistan https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-peace-talks-us-vice-president-on-his-connection-with-india-pakistan-1782096108504/embed Netanyahu also reiterated that the war in the Middle East had achieved Israel’s key goal of preventing Iran from possessing a nuclear weapon. “We prevented Iran from carrying out a plan to annihilate us and today they would have had an atomic bomb to do so,” the Israeli leader said. “We prevented that from happening. We removed the existential danger. Had we not acted... Iran would have had atomic bombs and let me tell you something, they would have used them.” “That’s what we prevented,” he said. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

Israeli PM Netanyahu rejected claims that US President Donald Trump influences his decisions, saying both leaders act independently. He also vowed to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and keep troops in Lebanon.

‘I stand for interests of Israel’: Netanyahu rejects claims Trump influences his decisions amid Iran war

The US-Iran MoU that was to be signed face-to-face on June 19 in Switzerland was abruptly cancelled following the escalation by both Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Even as Israel is facing severe diplomatic backlash over its military operations in both Gaza and Lebanon, it maintains that it has no intention of withdrawing its forces from Lebanon and claims that the conflict with Hezbollah is separate from the war on Iran. The process is further complicated due to the Western proscription of Hezbollah as a terror outfit. Israel continues to assert that Hezbollah is a Western-designated terrorist outfit, which it reserves the right to attack and engages with the Lebanese government diplomacy which is arguably incapable of fighting Israel. As of now, Israel maintains control over around 5 per cent of Lebanon's territory.&nbsp;<h2>Who gets to define terrorism?</h2>The term terrorism has colonial roots. It emerged first in the French Revolution during 1793-94, was used to denote state-sponsored violence and government intimidation, and then the ruling revolutionary government decreed, “terror is the order of the day,” to institutionalise the guillotine justice. Once the ruling government was overthrown, the term got a negative connotation. The modern concept, application, and legal framework of terrorism are deeply tied to British imperial history. It was used by the empire to criminalise anti-colonial resistance. It started at first in colonial India in 1919, officially known as the Anarchical and Revolutionary Crimes Act. This law was implemented in British India and then imported to Ireland to criminalise the Sinn Féin.The first time the word "terrorism" was explicitly named in British parliamentary law was the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act 1974. For the longest time, the list of terrorist outfits was just the Irish Republican Army. &nbsp;By 2000, with the permanent Terrorism Act 2000, the UK became the first nation to normalise extraordinary police powers. The broad definition included using or threatening the use of serious violence, property damage, or severe electronic system disruption, to influence a government or intimidate the public for advancing a political, religious, or ideological cause.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/should-rss-register-organisation-priyank-kharge-mohan-bhagwat-debate-1781867487190">RSS registration row: What are the arguments for and against formal registration?</a><h2>Why is the terror label controversial?</h2>Hezbollah emerged in 1982, directly in response to Israel's invasion of Lebanon, as a resistance movement against the occupation of southern Lebanon, which lasted till May 2000. Hezbollah is credited with expelling Israel from Lebanon or at least making the cost of occupation high, through guerrilla warfare. Something the Lebanese state could not do. The Lebanese army has poor technical capability, suffering from economic crisis, as part of a deliberate foreign policy by international donors to keep the military under-equipped. From this view, Hezbollah's origins are anti-colonial resistance, not unprovoked terror.An independent Lebanese journalist, Rania Khalek, has explicitly argued that Hezbollah is the only group that's standing right now between Israel and the Lebanese people, and stopping it from turning into Gaza. It is not just an army but also contains a legitimate political arm with seats in the Lebanese parliament. It runs hospitals, schools, and social services and represents a large segment of Lebanese Shia society. So the representation of Hezbollah as a terrorist outfit is a reductionist perspective of a much more complex phenomenon. It delegitimises the social needs of Lebanese people, taking away agency from non-Western actors by terming them terrorists to achieve foreign policy goals.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">BT’s <a href="https://x.com/RaniaKhalek?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@raniakhalek</a> on Israeli attacks on Lebanon: “This army of rapists is currently invading my country. And the only thing standing in the way of me and this army of rapists is Hezbollah.” <a href="https://t.co/ro9O8SwnDO">pic.twitter.com/ro9O8SwnDO</a>&mdash; BreakThrough News (@BTnewsroom) <a href="https://x.com/BTnewsroom/status/2037191908099760560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The debate over Hezbollah's designation has renewed questions about who defines terrorism and how colonial-era laws and political frameworks continue to shape the use of the label in modern conflicts.

The US-Iran MoU that was to be signed face-to-face on June 19 in Switzerland was abruptly cancelled following the escalation by both Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Even as Israel is facing severe diplomatic backlash over its military operations in both Gaza and Lebanon, it maintains that it has no intention of withdrawing its forces from Lebanon and claims that the conflict with Hezbollah is separate from the war on Iran. The process is further complicated due to the Western proscription of Hezbollah as a terror outfit. Israel continues to assert that Hezbollah is a Western-designated terrorist outfit, which it reserves the right to attack and engages with the Lebanese government diplomacy which is arguably incapable of fighting Israel. As of now, Israel maintains control over around 5 per cent of Lebanon's territory. Who gets to define terrorism? The term terrorism has colonial roots. It emerged first in the French Revolution during 1793-94, was used to denote state-sponsored violence and government intimidation, and then the ruling revolutionary government decreed, “terror is the order of the day,” to institutionalise the guillotine justice. Once the ruling government was overthrown, the term got a negative connotation. The modern concept, application, and legal framework of terrorism are deeply tied to British imperial history. It was used by the empire to criminalise anti-colonial resistance. It started at first in colonial India in 1919, officially known as the Anarchical and Revolutionary Crimes Act. This law was implemented in British India and then imported to Ireland to criminalise the Sinn Féin. The first time the word "terrorism" was explicitly named in British parliamentary law was the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act 1974. For the longest time, the list of terrorist outfits was just the Irish Republican Army. By 2000, with the permanent Terrorism Act 2000, the UK became the first nation to normalise extraordinary police powers. The broad definition included using or threatening the use of serious violence, property damage, or severe electronic system disruption, to influence a government or intimidate the public for advancing a political, religious, or ideological cause. Also Read: RSS registration row: What are the arguments for and against formal registration? Why is the terror label controversial? Hezbollah emerged in 1982, directly in response to Israel's invasion of Lebanon, as a resistance movement against the occupation of southern Lebanon, which lasted till May 2000. Hezbollah is credited with expelling Israel from Lebanon or at least making the cost of occupation high, through guerrilla warfare. Something the Lebanese state could not do. The Lebanese army has poor technical capability, suffering from economic crisis, as part of a deliberate foreign policy by international donors to keep the military under-equipped. From this view, Hezbollah's origins are anti-colonial resistance, not unprovoked terror. An independent Lebanese journalist, Rania Khalek, has explicitly argued that Hezbollah is the only group that's standing right now between Israel and the Lebanese people, and stopping it from turning into Gaza. It is not just an army but also contains a legitimate political arm with seats in the Lebanese parliament. It runs hospitals, schools, and social services and represents a large segment of Lebanese Shia society. So the representation of Hezbollah as a terrorist outfit is a reductionist perspective of a much more complex phenomenon. It delegitimises the social needs of Lebanese people, taking away agency from non-Western actors by terming them terrorists to achieve foreign policy goals.

The debate over Hezbollah's designation has renewed questions about who defines terrorism and how colonial-era laws and political frameworks continue to shape the use of the label in modern conflicts.

Who gets to define terrorism? How colonial history shapes the debate over Hezbollah's designation

Israel claimed to have killed ‘dozens of Hezbollah members’ as it continued to pound southern Lebanon villages. Its defence minister, Israel Katz said on Friday “nobody can tell us what to do” even if US President Donald Trump “says otherwise”. His comments came as the Israeli Defence Forces' ongoing fighting with Hezbollah in Lebanon appeared to threaten the Iran-US peace deal. A Friday meeting for the final signing of the deal was postponed by host Switzerland hours earlier. Four Israeli soldiers were killed in the fighting in southern Lebanon.<h2>Israeli military claims to have struck 80 Hezbollah targets</h2>The Israeli military said it hit more than 80 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon and killed dozens of its members in response to what it claimed were truce violations earlier.&nbsp;"A short while ago, in response to repeated violations of the ceasefire by the Hezbollah terrorist organisation, which continues to advance and execute attacks against IDF soldiers, the IDF struck Hezbollah infrastructure sites in the Beqaa Valley," said the IDF statement.It described the targets as “command centres, terrorists, launch positions, and additional terrorist infrastructure sites in the area of Nabatieh and additional areas in southern Lebanon, within the Security Zone and beyond it.”Separately, Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA) and health officials reported that at least 18 people were killed in the Nabatieh strikes by Israel.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-using-lebanon-as-bargaining-chip-in-negotiations-with-us-says-lebanese-president-joseph-aoun-1780672889045">‘Iran using Lebanon as bargaining chip in negotiations with US,’ says Lebanese President Joseph Aoun</a><h2>Four Israeli soldiers killed</h2>Hezbollah had launched attacks, including drones, that killed four Israeli soldiers and wounded five in one incident near Kfar Tebnit. Israel described its actions as responses to these violations, Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;Those killed included Dor Gedalia Ben Simhon, 32, from Beit HaShita, who commanded the 52nd Battalion, 401st Brigade. Three members of his tank crew were also killed in the fighting. The deaths were caused by a suspicious object that struck a tank of Battalion 52 forces operating near Tebnit, Israeli media reported.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-s-beaufort-castle-why-israel-captured-800-year-old-fortress-wion-decodes-1780326552918">Lebanon’s Beaufort Castle: Why Israel captured 800-year-old fortress? WION Decodes</a><h2>Is Israel defying Trump on Lebanon?</h2>“Nobody can tell us what to do, and we’ve proven it," Israeli defence minister Katz said in a Channel 14 interview amid intensified fighting in Lebanon.&nbsp;Katz has been stressing Israel's right to act independently against threats, and rejecting external dictates, even if it is from the US, the key ally of the Jewish nation.&nbsp; In recent remarks, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu distanced Israel from the Iran-US peace MoU, saying it's not a signatory and was not involved in the negotiations.He insisted that Iran's nuclear threat, particularly the dismantling of enrichment sites and removing enriched material, should be part of the deal.He ruled out immediate troop withdrawals from the conflict, stating Israeli forces will remain in "deep security zones" in southern Lebanon as well as Gaza and Syria "for as long as necessary" to protect Israel, The Guardian reported.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lebanon-counts-its-losses-as-displaced-families-returned-home-1781660539849/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/lebanon-counts-its-losses-as-displaced-families-returned-home-1781660539849/embed</a><h2>Is the US-Iran peace deal unravelling?</h2>The intense clashes could threaten the Iran-US ceasefire, which Tehran had insisted should be on all fronts, including Lebanon. Even as a 60-day negotiation window is closing, Iran has postponed related nuclear talks, partly due to the ongoing violence in Lebanon. Switzerland postponed the scheduled Friday signing of the MoU after US Vice President cancelled his trip for the same.Israel, a party in the US-Iran war, was not one of the signatories or negotiators of the Iran peace Memorandum of Understanding.&nbsp;&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;

Israel intensified strikes in southern Lebanon, claiming attacks on 80 Hezbollah targets. Four Israeli soldiers were killed. The developments risk the unravelling of the Iran-US peace deal.

Israel claimed to have killed ‘dozens of Hezbollah members’ as it continued to pound southern Lebanon villages. Its defence minister, Israel Katz said on Friday “nobody can tell us what to do” even if US President Donald Trump “says otherwise”. His comments came as the Israeli Defence Forces' ongoing fighting with Hezbollah in Lebanon appeared to threaten the Iran-US peace deal. A Friday meeting for the final signing of the deal was postponed by host Switzerland hours earlier. Four Israeli soldiers were killed in the fighting in southern Lebanon. Israeli military claims to have struck 80 Hezbollah targets The Israeli military said it hit more than 80 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon and killed dozens of its members in response to what it claimed were truce violations earlier. "A short while ago, in response to repeated violations of the ceasefire by the Hezbollah terrorist organisation, which continues to advance and execute attacks against IDF soldiers, the IDF struck Hezbollah infrastructure sites in the Beqaa Valley," said the IDF statement. It described the targets as “command centres, terrorists, launch positions, and additional terrorist infrastructure sites in the area of Nabatieh and additional areas in southern Lebanon, within the Security Zone and beyond it.” Separately, Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA) and health officials reported that at least 18 people were killed in the Nabatieh strikes by Israel. Also read: ‘Iran using Lebanon as bargaining chip in negotiations with US,’ says Lebanese President Joseph Aoun Four Israeli soldiers killed Hezbollah had launched attacks, including drones, that killed four Israeli soldiers and wounded five in one incident near Kfar Tebnit. Israel described its actions as responses to these violations, Times of Israel reported. Those killed included Dor Gedalia Ben Simhon, 32, from Beit HaShita, who commanded the 52nd Battalion, 401st Brigade. Three members of his tank crew were also killed in the fighting. The deaths were caused by a suspicious object that struck a tank of Battalion 52 forces operating near Tebnit, Israeli media reported. Also read: Lebanon’s Beaufort Castle: Why Israel captured 800-year-old fortress? WION Decodes Is Israel defying Trump on Lebanon? “Nobody can tell us what to do, and we’ve proven it," Israeli defence minister Katz said in a Channel 14 interview amid intensified fighting in Lebanon. Katz has been stressing Israel's right to act independently against threats, and rejecting external dictates, even if it is from the US, the key ally of the Jewish nation. In recent remarks, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu distanced Israel from the Iran-US peace MoU, saying it's not a signatory and was not involved in the negotiations. He insisted that Iran's nuclear threat, particularly the dismantling of enrichment sites and removing enriched material, should be part of the deal. He ruled out immediate troop withdrawals from the conflict, stating Israeli forces will remain in "deep security zones" in southern Lebanon as well as Gaza and Syria "for as long as necessary" to protect Israel, The Guardian reported. https://www.wionews.com/videos/lebanon-counts-its-losses-as-displaced-families-returned-home-1781660539849/embed Is the US-Iran peace deal unravelling? The intense clashes could threaten the Iran-US ceasefire, which Tehran had insisted should be on all fronts, including Lebanon. Even as a 60-day negotiation window is closing, Iran has postponed related nuclear talks, partly due to the ongoing violence in Lebanon. Switzerland postponed the scheduled Friday signing of the MoU after US Vice President cancelled his trip for the same. Israel, a party in the US-Iran war, was not one of the signatories or negotiators of the Iran peace Memorandum of Understanding. 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.

Israel intensified strikes in southern Lebanon, claiming attacks on 80 Hezbollah targets. Four Israeli soldiers were killed. The developments risk the unravelling of the Iran-US peace deal.

Israeli army ‘kills dozens of Hezbollah’ members in Lebanon; defence minister says ‘nobody can tell us…’: Is Iran peace deal in trouble?

Despite the ceasefire under the US-Iran peace deal that was virtually signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday (Jun 17), Israeli attacks on Lebanon have continued. On Friday (Jun 19), the Israeli military said that four soldiers were killed in southern Lebanon as the fighting continues with Iran-backed Hezbollah. Following this, the Israeli far-right minister has threatened that “all of Lebanon must burn”.“With all due respect to the Americans, Israel must make it clear to the entire world that the blood of our sons and the security of our citizens are not up for bargaining. All of Lebanon must burn,” Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir said.Meanwhile, Lebanon said that 18 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes. In a statement, its health ministry said, “The intensive Israeli airstrikes carried out from midnight until this morning have prevented the evacuation of the martyrs and wounded, and have resulted in a preliminary toll of 18 martyrs and 33 wounded.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/switzerland-announces-us-iran-talks-called-off-after-vance-postpones-trip-1781847501169">Switzerland announces US-Iran talks called off after Vance postpones trip</a><h2>Did Israeli strikes postpone US-Iran talks?</h2>The Swiss government announced that the US-Iran talks, which were scheduled on Friday (Jun 19) have been called off. This comes after US Vice President JD Vance postponed his trip to the European nation hours before his departure to hold talks with the Iranian delegation in Burgenstock. The Swiss government’s latest confirmation on the status of the talks came after it earlier said that a meeting between the US and Iran would be held in Burgenstock, along with mediators Pakistan and Qatar.“The planned talks between the US, Iran, Qatar and Pakistan have been postponed,” the Swiss Foreign Ministry said in a statement to AFP. It added that “Switzerland remains ready to facilitate these talks. The relevant preparatory work at Burgenstock is continuing.”The announcement came after White House stated that Vance’s trip to the Swiss mountaintop resort was postponed as “logistics of these negotiations have never been simple or predictable.”No details have been shared by the US, Iran, Switzerland or mediators Pakistan and Qatar on why the talks are stalled once again. It is unclear whether the talks were cancelled over a disagreement, although it is possible that continued Israeli attacks on Lebanon could be the reason.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><h2>What does MoU says about Lebanon?</h2>The 14-point memorandum states that the US, Iran and their respective allies “declare an immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon.”The MoU also states “not to initiate any war or any military operation against each other and to refrain from the threat or use of force against each other, and to ensure the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Lebanon.”Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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;

Despite the US-Iran ceasefire, Israel-Hezbollah clashes continue. Four Israeli soldiers and 18 people in Lebanon were killed. Israel's Ben Gvir warned that “all of Lebanon must burn” as US-Iran talks were postponed.

Despite the ceasefire under the US-Iran peace deal that was virtually signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday (Jun 17), Israeli attacks on Lebanon have continued. On Friday (Jun 19), the Israeli military said that four soldiers were killed in southern Lebanon as the fighting continues with Iran-backed Hezbollah. Following this, the Israeli far-right minister has threatened that “all of Lebanon must burn”. “With all due respect to the Americans, Israel must make it clear to the entire world that the blood of our sons and the security of our citizens are not up for bargaining. All of Lebanon must burn,” Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir said. Meanwhile, Lebanon said that 18 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes. In a statement, its health ministry said, “The intensive Israeli airstrikes carried out from midnight until this morning have prevented the evacuation of the martyrs and wounded, and have resulted in a preliminary toll of 18 martyrs and 33 wounded.” Also read | Switzerland announces US-Iran talks called off after Vance postpones trip Did Israeli strikes postpone US-Iran talks? The Swiss government announced that the US-Iran talks, which were scheduled on Friday (Jun 19) have been called off. This comes after US Vice President JD Vance postponed his trip to the European nation hours before his departure to hold talks with the Iranian delegation in Burgenstock. The Swiss government’s latest confirmation on the status of the talks came after it earlier said that a meeting between the US and Iran would be held in Burgenstock, along with mediators Pakistan and Qatar. “The planned talks between the US, Iran, Qatar and Pakistan have been postponed,” the Swiss Foreign Ministry said in a statement to AFP. It added that “Switzerland remains ready to facilitate these talks. The relevant preparatory work at Burgenstock is continuing.” The announcement came after White House stated that Vance’s trip to the Swiss mountaintop resort was postponed as “logistics of these negotiations have never been simple or predictable.” No details have been shared by the US, Iran, Switzerland or mediators Pakistan and Qatar on why the talks are stalled once again. It is unclear whether the talks were cancelled over a disagreement, although it is possible that continued Israeli attacks on Lebanon could be the reason. Also read | US-Iran peace deal: Inside the 14-point MoU that ended over 108 days of war | WION Decodes What does MoU says about Lebanon? The 14-point memorandum states that the US, Iran and their respective allies “declare an immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon.” The MoU also states “not to initiate any war or any military operation against each other and to refrain from the threat or use of force against each other, and to ensure the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Lebanon.” Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

Despite the US-Iran ceasefire, Israel-Hezbollah clashes continue. Four Israeli soldiers and 18 people in Lebanon were killed. Israel's Ben Gvir warned that “all of Lebanon must burn” as US-Iran talks were postponed.

‘All of Lebanon must burn’: Israeli minister warns as clashes continue despite US-Iran ceasefire

US President Donald Trump has said that a deal to end the war with Iran is scheduled to be signed on Sunday (June 14). Iran has not finalised the date but has hinted that deal is confirmed. Pakistan, a key mediator, also confirmed the development and said that both parties were “preparing for the electronic signing.” Qatar and Kuwait expressed their “utmost satisfaction with the breakthrough.” However, not everyone is happy with the announcement of the signing of the deal. While Trump and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu have had series of tensed conversation in the past week, Iran's IRGC has also expressed dissatisfaction over the deal.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-ended-the-war-today-trump-s-big-declaration-after-halting-iran-strikes-what-s-really-happening-1781229576328">'We ended the war today': Trump's BIG declaration after halting Iran strikes - What's really happening</a><h2>Who are unhappy in Israel?</h2>Israel's Channel 12 quoted a very senior Israeli official saying that the probable US-Iran deal is “sh*t”. The official was not named in the report. This comes despite Trump telling Netanyahu in a phone call on June 11 that “it’s an excellent deal, and it’s time to end this war,” Channel 12 reported. Senior Israeli officials said that the emerging agreement indicated that Washington has agreed to Tehran’s “main conditions,” adding that “the Iranians are not agreeing to this for nothing.” The report also said Israeli officials and experts who have worked for decades on the Iran file consider that the terms of the MOU “endanger Israel’s security interests.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-new-pm-for-israel-us-president-calls-netanyahu-wartime-pm-but-does-not-endorse-him-1781056588263">Trump wants new PM for Israel? US president calls Netanyahu 'wartime PM', but does not endorse him</a>&nbsp;Adding to the statements by Israeli officials came a statement by former Prime Minister and opposition leader Yair Lapid, who said that Israel would fail to achieve any of its war objectives under the emerging agreement between the US and Iran. Lapid slammed Netanyahu and called the deal his "complete failure," saying it turned Israel into a satellite state that takes instructions on its national security. He added that "no press conference, media manipulation, or AI-generated video can hide this failure." Nevertheless, Netanyahu has still not issued his public remarks on the deal.<h2>Who are unhappy in Iran?</h2>Iran hardliners are against the deal too. Hardline Iranian lawmaker Mahmoud Nabavian was quoted by UK based Iran International saying the latest text was more damaging than two earlier versions and involved greater Iranian concessions. “After seeing the text of the agreement, I must say that compared with the two previous versions, it is more damaging and Iran’s retreats have also increased,” Nabavian said. “An agreement cooked up by the architects of the disgraceful JCPOA is certainly pure loss,” Nabavian wrote. IRGC-affiliated Fars News criticized Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for what it called an “ambiguous” response to Trump’s rejection of Iranian media reports about the terms of a possible US-Iran memorandum of understanding. The outlet questioned whether Araghchi’s language amounted to a retreat or an alignment with Trump’s narrative. A protest was also held outside a Foreign Ministry office in the northeastern city of Mashhad against Araghchi. No statement by Iran Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has been released on the final deal.

A proposed US-Iran agreement championed by Donald Trump is facing criticism from both Israel and Iran. Israeli officials fear the deal compromises security interests, while Iranian hardliners say Tehran has made excessive concessions, exposing deep opposition despite diplomatic progress.

US President Donald Trump has said that a deal to end the war with Iran is scheduled to be signed on Sunday (June 14). Iran has not finalised the date but has hinted that deal is confirmed. Pakistan, a key mediator, also confirmed the development and said that both parties were “preparing for the electronic signing.” Qatar and Kuwait expressed their “utmost satisfaction with the breakthrough.” However, not everyone is happy with the announcement of the signing of the deal. While Trump and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu have had series of tensed conversation in the past week, Iran's IRGC has also expressed dissatisfaction over the deal. Also Read: 'We ended the war today': Trump's BIG declaration after halting Iran strikes - What's really happening Who are unhappy in Israel? Israel's Channel 12 quoted a very senior Israeli official saying that the probable US-Iran deal is “sh*t”. The official was not named in the report. This comes despite Trump telling Netanyahu in a phone call on June 11 that “it’s an excellent deal, and it’s time to end this war,” Channel 12 reported. Senior Israeli officials said that the emerging agreement indicated that Washington has agreed to Tehran’s “main conditions,” adding that “the Iranians are not agreeing to this for nothing.” The report also said Israeli officials and experts who have worked for decades on the Iran file consider that the terms of the MOU “endanger Israel’s security interests.” Also Read: Trump wants new PM for Israel? US president calls Netanyahu 'wartime PM', but does not endorse him Adding to the statements by Israeli officials came a statement by former Prime Minister and opposition leader Yair Lapid, who said that Israel would fail to achieve any of its war objectives under the emerging agreement between the US and Iran. Lapid slammed Netanyahu and called the deal his "complete failure," saying it turned Israel into a satellite state that takes instructions on its national security. He added that "no press conference, media manipulation, or AI-generated video can hide this failure." Nevertheless, Netanyahu has still not issued his public remarks on the deal. Who are unhappy in Iran? Iran hardliners are against the deal too. Hardline Iranian lawmaker Mahmoud Nabavian was quoted by UK based Iran International saying the latest text was more damaging than two earlier versions and involved greater Iranian concessions. “After seeing the text of the agreement, I must say that compared with the two previous versions, it is more damaging and Iran’s retreats have also increased,” Nabavian said. “An agreement cooked up by the architects of the disgraceful JCPOA is certainly pure loss,” Nabavian wrote. IRGC-affiliated Fars News criticized Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for what it called an “ambiguous” response to Trump’s rejection of Iranian media reports about the terms of a possible US-Iran memorandum of understanding. The outlet questioned whether Araghchi’s language amounted to a retreat or an alignment with Trump’s narrative. A protest was also held outside a Foreign Ministry office in the northeastern city of Mashhad against Araghchi. No statement by Iran Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has been released on the final deal.

A proposed US-Iran agreement championed by Donald Trump is facing criticism from both Israel and Iran. Israeli officials fear the deal compromises security interests, while Iranian hardliners say Tehran has made excessive concessions, exposing deep opposition despite diplomatic progress.

'This is sh*t': Trump's probable Iran-US deal faces pushback from Israeli officials, IRGC hardliners

As Iran and the United States near a peace deal, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has said Israel will continue maintaining a military presence in territories it currently controls in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria, indicating that any future regional agreement may not lead to troop withdrawals from those areas.&nbsp;In a statement posted on X on Friday, Katz said Israel's security policy would remain unchanged and that the military would continue operating in what it considers security zones across multiple fronts.&nbsp;"Israel will not withdraw from the security zones in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza," Katz said. “Our security doctrine is sharp and clear: we act against both near and distant threats and strive for decisive outcomes, not compromises or concessions.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">נשיא ארה&quot;ב מוביל בימים אלה להסכם עם איראן מתוך ראיית האינטרסים האמריקאים, ובהם גם האינטרס המשותף עם ישראל - למנוע מאיראן נשק גרעיני - ואנו מצפים שיעמוד על העיקרון הזה ועקרונות נוספים בתחום הטילים ושלוחי הטרור. ביחד הנחתנו על איראן מכות קשות שהסיגו את יכולותיה שנים רבות לאחור.…&mdash; ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) <a href="https://x.com/Israel_katz/status/2065439514743435667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

His remarks came as reports in Iranian media suggested that Tehran and Washington were moving closer to a broader understanding aimed at reducing tensions across the region, including in Lebanon.&nbsp;Katz said Israel had drawn lessons from the October 7 attacks and would continue to hold positions it considers vital for national security. He stated that Israeli forces would keep defending the country's borders from locations including Mount Hermon, parts of southern Lebanon, the occupied West Bank and large areas of Gaza.&nbsp;According to Katz, Israel's approach is centred on removing security threats rather than relying on diplomatic concessions. His comments indicate that future regional negotiations could face obstacles if they require Israeli forces to leave territories currently under military control.&nbsp;The Israeli defence minister also addressed ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran, saying Israel supports efforts to stop Tehran from developing nuclear weapons but would preserve its freedom to act independently if required.&nbsp;"The United States is leading efforts toward an agreement based on American interests, including the shared interest with Israel of preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons," Katz said.&nbsp;He added that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel's defence leadership had directed the military to prepare for different scenarios involving Iran.&nbsp;"Israel must retain the ability to act independently to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons," he said.&nbsp;Katz further said Israel expects any future arrangement with Tehran to cover not only uranium enrichment but also Iran's missile programme and its support for regional armed groups.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mou-will-ensure-end-of-war-on-all-fronts-including-lebanon-iran-s-foreign-minister-abbas-araghchi-1781296154181">MoU will ensure end of war on all fronts, including Lebanon: Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi</a><h2>Iran says Lebanon part of proposed deal</h2>Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said a proposed memorandum of understanding would mark the end of hostilities across several fronts, including Lebanon.&nbsp;"The MoU will announce the end of the war on all fronts, including in Lebanon. We will never leave Lebanon alone," Araghchi said.&nbsp;The Iranian foreign minister also said no final decision had been reached regarding Tehran's nuclear programme or the lifting of sanctions.&nbsp;"The issue of enrichment and stocks of enriched materials will be determined in the final agreement," Araghchi told Iranian media.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said a proposed memorandum of understanding would end conflicts across multiple fronts, including in Lebanon, adding, "The MoU will announce the end of the war on all fronts, including in Lebanon. We will never leave Lebanon alone."

As Iran and the United States near a peace deal, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has said Israel will continue maintaining a military presence in territories it currently controls in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria, indicating that any future regional agreement may not lead to troop withdrawals from those areas. In a statement posted on X on Friday, Katz said Israel's security policy would remain unchanged and that the military would continue operating in what it considers security zones across multiple fronts. "Israel will not withdraw from the security zones in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza," Katz said. “Our security doctrine is sharp and clear: we act against both near and distant threats and strive for decisive outcomes, not compromises or concessions.”

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said a proposed memorandum of understanding would end conflicts across multiple fronts, including in Lebanon, adding, "The MoU will announce the end of the war on all fronts, including in Lebanon. We will never leave Lebanon alone."

Israel rules out withdrawal from Lebanon, Syria and Gaza; Iran says proposed deal includes all fronts

Fresh Israeli strikes in Lebanon have cast doubt on efforts to secure a U.S.-backed ceasefire, as tensions once again flare along the Israel-Lebanon border.

The escalation comes after Hezbollah rejected key elements of a proposed truce framework. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has urged Lebanese citizens to oppose Hezbollah, arguing that the group's actions are dragging Lebanon deeper into conflict.

As diplomatic efforts struggle to gain traction, concerns are mounting that the Israel-Lebanon front could become a major flashpoint in the broader regional crisis.

IDF Strikes On Lebanon Throw Truce Into Doubt, Netanyahu Urges Lebanese To Stand Against Hezbollah 

Sparking a major controversy, Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir during a June 9 security cabinet discussion in Israel allegedly suggested arresting and kidnapping Lebanese women and children to pressurise Hezbollah. He also called for bombing Beirut, dand occupying territory in retaliation for Hezbollah drone strikes. Terming his ideas as “out of the box” the Israeli minister said that Israel should do things that “hurts them the most.” “We must think outside the box regarding Hezbollah, and we should also consider occupying territory and killing many terrorists,” Ben-Gvir said, as cited by Maariv newspaper. Ben-Gvir also called for “arresting their women and children,” saying, “This is what hurts them most.” Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused Hezbollah of seeking to drag Israel into “a war of attrition.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-it-intercepted-aerial-target-from-yemen-as-fresh-strikes-in-lebanon-kill-14-1780959754433">Israel says intercepted aerial target from Yemen as fresh strikes in Lebanon kill 14</a><h2>Trump Netanyahu disagreements</h2>According to reports, Netanyahu was rebuked by Trump after IDF retaliated to Iran strikes without Washington's nod. Trump told Netanyahu that he would be isolated if he moves ahead with his Iran plans without paying heed to American negotiations. Trump had also asserted his authority on Sunday and said in an interview that it is he who “calls the shots and not the Israeli PM.” Last Monday, Axios reported that Trump's call with Netanyahu was expletive laden. He reportedly told the Israeli PM that he is “fucking crazy” and that everyone “hates Israel.” The Axios report this morning quotes the US president saying: “I said, 'Bibi, you better be careful, or you will be on your own very soon.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-using-lebanon-as-bargaining-chip-in-negotiations-with-us-says-lebanese-president-joseph-aoun-1780672889045">‘Iran using Lebanon as bargaining chip in negotiations with US,’ says Lebanese President Joseph Aoun</a>&nbsp;Netanyahu's move to cease the attacks and his decision to listen to the US president led to disagreements among security cabinet ministers. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir reportedly argued that Israel should resist US pressure, saying, “We need to stand our ground against Trump. We need to fight tooth and nail and make it clear that we have red lines.” Netanyahu reportedly responded by suggesting Ben Gvir’s position was influenced by the approaching election campaign, a charge the far-right minister rejected. Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich reportedly argued that Israel should continue to focus its military response on Hezbollah targets in Beirut.&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.

Israeli ministers have intensified rhetoric against Lebanon following Hezbollah drone strikes, with National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir calling for harsher military action and territorial occupation. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused Hezbollah of pursuing a war of attrition.

Sparking a major controversy, Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir during a June 9 security cabinet discussion in Israel allegedly suggested arresting and kidnapping Lebanese women and children to pressurise Hezbollah. He also called for bombing Beirut, dand occupying territory in retaliation for Hezbollah drone strikes. Terming his ideas as “out of the box” the Israeli minister said that Israel should do things that “hurts them the most.” “We must think outside the box regarding Hezbollah, and we should also consider occupying territory and killing many terrorists,” Ben-Gvir said, as cited by Maariv newspaper. Ben-Gvir also called for “arresting their women and children,” saying, “This is what hurts them most.” Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused Hezbollah of seeking to drag Israel into “a war of attrition.” Also Read: Israel says intercepted aerial target from Yemen as fresh strikes in Lebanon kill 14 Trump Netanyahu disagreements According to reports, Netanyahu was rebuked by Trump after IDF retaliated to Iran strikes without Washington's nod. Trump told Netanyahu that he would be isolated if he moves ahead with his Iran plans without paying heed to American negotiations. Trump had also asserted his authority on Sunday and said in an interview that it is he who “calls the shots and not the Israeli PM.” Last Monday, Axios reported that Trump's call with Netanyahu was expletive laden. He reportedly told the Israeli PM that he is “fucking crazy” and that everyone “hates Israel.” The Axios report this morning quotes the US president saying: “I said, 'Bibi, you better be careful, or you will be on your own very soon.” Also Read: ‘Iran using Lebanon as bargaining chip in negotiations with US,’ says Lebanese President Joseph Aoun Netanyahu's move to cease the attacks and his decision to listen to the US president led to disagreements among security cabinet ministers. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir reportedly argued that Israel should resist US pressure, saying, “We need to stand our ground against Trump. We need to fight tooth and nail and make it clear that we have red lines.” Netanyahu reportedly responded by suggesting Ben Gvir’s position was influenced by the approaching election campaign, a charge the far-right minister rejected. Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich reportedly argued that Israel should continue to focus its military response on Hezbollah targets in Beirut. 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.

Israeli ministers have intensified rhetoric against Lebanon following Hezbollah drone strikes, with National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir calling for harsher military action and territorial occupation. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused Hezbollah of pursuing a war of attrition.

'Abduct Lebanese women, arrest children': Israeli minister's 'out-of-the-box' proposal to defeat Hezbollah sparks outrage

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Friday accused Iran of exploiting his war-torn nation as a bargaining chip in its conflict with the United States and Israel and demanded that Tehran stop interfering in Lebanese affairs. Aoun delivered a strong and searing message to Tehran in an interview with CNN and said Iran is using Lebanon as a “bargaining chip” in its negotiations with the United States.&nbsp;“Our house is being destroyed. [Iran is] using Lebanon as a bargaining chip in their negotiations with the United States. It is unacceptable,” he says.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-for-pause-humans-may-lose-control-on-ai-as-it-starts-building-itself-warns-anthropic-1780660343107">‘Time for pause’: Humans may lose control on AI as it starts building itself, warns Anthropic</a>&nbsp;Aoun has repeatedly sought to distance Lebanon from regional conflicts and has said decisions concerning the country’s sovereignty and security must be made by the Lebanese state alone.&nbsp;In an interview at the presidential palace in Beirut, President Aoun told CNN that the Lebanese people are “fed up” of war between Israel and Hezbollah, the powerful Iran-backed militant group and a political force seen as a state within a state in Lebanon.&nbsp;Addressing Iran, Aoun said, “You are not trying to help us … the people of Lebanon are paying the price … for the sake of your own interest,” adding, “our interests … do not coincide with your interests.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-hotel-owner-helped-bangladeshi-nationals-get-fake-indian-documents-was-arrested-booked-last-year-1780654502514">Delhi hotel owner helped Bangladeshi nationals get fake Indian documents, was arrested, booked last year</a>&nbsp;He also turned his fire on the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Iran’s elite military force, saying, “It’s not your country, it’s our country.”&nbsp;Aoun also rejected a statement by the Revolutionary Guards on Wednesday, demanding Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanon as part of a US-Iranian ceasefire agreement.&nbsp;&nbsp;Israel and Lebanon reached an agreement on Wednesday to implement a ceasefire, but it demands a complete cessation of Hezbollah attacks and full withdrawal of all Hezbollah operatives from southern Lebanon.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senate-passes-70bn-bill-to-fund-immigration-enforcement-without-limits-on-trump-anti-weaponisation-fund-1780666271587">Senate passes $70bn bill to fund immigration enforcement, without limits on Trump ‘anti-weaponisation’ fund</a>&nbsp;“It was a tough negotiation until we had a major breakthrough,” Aoun said, adding that the agreement could be a path forward to a “just and lasting peace.”Hezbollah, which wasn’t part of the agreement, rejected the deal on Wednesday, saying it does not guarantee an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon.&nbsp;The latest conflict began after Hezbollah fired rockets on Israeli cities in retaliation for an assault by the US and Israel on Iran, which killed the Islamic Republic’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his senior military command.

Israel and Lebanon reached an agreement on Wednesday to implement a ceasefire, but it demands a complete cessation of Hezbollah attacks and full withdrawal of all Hezbollah operatives from southern Lebanon. Hezbollah, which wasn’t part of the agreement, rejected the deal.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Friday accused Iran of exploiting his war-torn nation as a bargaining chip in its conflict with the United States and Israel and demanded that Tehran stop interfering in Lebanese affairs. Aoun delivered a strong and searing message to Tehran in an interview with CNN and said Iran is using Lebanon as a “bargaining chip” in its negotiations with the United States. “Our house is being destroyed. [Iran is] using Lebanon as a bargaining chip in their negotiations with the United States. It is unacceptable,” he says. Also Read: ‘Time for pause’: Humans may lose control on AI as it starts building itself, warns Anthropic Aoun has repeatedly sought to distance Lebanon from regional conflicts and has said decisions concerning the country’s sovereignty and security must be made by the Lebanese state alone. In an interview at the presidential palace in Beirut, President Aoun told CNN that the Lebanese people are “fed up” of war between Israel and Hezbollah, the powerful Iran-backed militant group and a political force seen as a state within a state in Lebanon. Addressing Iran, Aoun said, “You are not trying to help us … the people of Lebanon are paying the price … for the sake of your own interest,” adding, “our interests … do not coincide with your interests.” Also Read: Delhi hotel owner helped Bangladeshi nationals get fake Indian documents, was arrested, booked last year He also turned his fire on the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Iran’s elite military force, saying, “It’s not your country, it’s our country.” Aoun also rejected a statement by the Revolutionary Guards on Wednesday, demanding Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanon as part of a US-Iranian ceasefire agreement. Israel and Lebanon reached an agreement on Wednesday to implement a ceasefire, but it demands a complete cessation of Hezbollah attacks and full withdrawal of all Hezbollah operatives from southern Lebanon. Also Read: Senate passes $70bn bill to fund immigration enforcement, without limits on Trump ‘anti-weaponisation’ fund “It was a tough negotiation until we had a major breakthrough,” Aoun said, adding that the agreement could be a path forward to a “just and lasting peace.” Hezbollah, which wasn’t part of the agreement, rejected the deal on Wednesday, saying it does not guarantee an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon. The latest conflict began after Hezbollah fired rockets on Israeli cities in retaliation for an assault by the US and Israel on Iran, which killed the Islamic Republic’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his senior military command.

Israel and Lebanon reached an agreement on Wednesday to implement a ceasefire, but it demands a complete cessation of Hezbollah attacks and full withdrawal of all Hezbollah operatives from southern Lebanon. Hezbollah, which wasn’t part of the agreement, rejected the deal.

‘Iran using Lebanon as bargaining chip in negotiations with US,’ says Lebanese President Joseph Aoun

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jun 1) claimed that Israel and Hezbollah had agreed to halt hostilities, while also suggesting that negotiations with Iran were once again moving forward after appearing to stall over Israel's military campaign in Lebanon. The announcement came after Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf insisted that US-Iranian truce talks would continue if Israel's attacks on Lebanon stop.<h2>Trump touts 'very productive' call with Netanyahu, reports suggest he called Israeli PM 'fucking crazy'</h2>Trump said he had held what he described as a "very productive" phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and had also communicated with Hezbollah through unnamed intermediaries.According to Trump, Israel agreed not to proceed with a planned military operation in Beirut, while Hezbollah committed to ending attacks on Israel. "Hezbollah agreed to stop shooting at Israel, and its soldiers. Likewise, Israel agreed to stop shooting at them," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. "Let's see how long that lasts. Hopefully it will be for ETERNITY!"

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-intercepts-lebanon-projectiles-hours-after-trump-s-f-ing-crazy-call-with-netanyahu-israel-lebanon-war-iran-war-truce-1780360547603">Israel intercepts Lebanon projectiles hours after Trump’s ‘f***ing crazy’ call with Netanyahu</a>The US president later added that talks with Iran were continuing "at a rapid pace", signalling optimism that diplomacy could regain momentum despite recent setbacks.However, developments on the ground quickly cast uncertainty over Trump's claims. Hours after the announcement, the Israeli military said it had intercepted two projectiles fired from Lebanon into northern Israel. No injuries were reported, but the incident highlighted the fragile nature of any potential ceasefire.An Axios report meanwhile suggests that Trump privately expressed frustration with Netanyahu over Israel's actions in Lebanon. "You're fucking crazy. You'd be in prison if it weren't for me. I'm saving your ass. Everybody hates you now. Everybody hates Israel because of this," reportedly said a "pissed" Trump. At one point in the call, he even yelled at Netanyahu: "What the fuck are you doing?" he said, according to the report.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-more-than-capable-of-restarting-war-with-iran-hegseth-amid-reports-of-depleted-missile-stockpiles-shangri-la-dialogue-security-summit-singapore-1780106328135">US 'more than capable' of restarting war with Iran, says Hegseth amid reports of depleted missile stockpiles</a><h2>Netanyahu insists Israel will continue striking Lebanon if...</h2>Questions also emerged over whether Netanyahu had fully signed on to the arrangement outlined by Trump. In a statement released after the call, the Israeli prime minister said he had informed Trump that Israel would continue striking targets in Beirut if Hezbollah attacks did not stop."I spoke this evening with President Trump and told him that if Hezbollah does not cease attacking our towns and our citizens, Israel will strike terrorist targets in Beirut," Netanyahu said, according to a statement released by his office.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.

Donald Trump says Israel and Hezbollah have agreed to halt hostilities and that Iran talks are back on track. But within hours, projectiles were launched from Lebanon, and Benjamin Netanyahu signalled Israel could still strike Beirut under certain conditions. All you need to know.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jun 1) claimed that Israel and Hezbollah had agreed to halt hostilities, while also suggesting that negotiations with Iran were once again moving forward after appearing to stall over Israel's military campaign in Lebanon. The announcement came after Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf insisted that US-Iranian truce talks would continue if Israel's attacks on Lebanon stop. Trump touts 'very productive' call with Netanyahu, reports suggest he called Israeli PM 'fucking crazy' Trump said he had held what he described as a "very productive" phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and had also communicated with Hezbollah through unnamed intermediaries. According to Trump, Israel agreed not to proceed with a planned military operation in Beirut, while Hezbollah committed to ending attacks on Israel. "Hezbollah agreed to stop shooting at Israel, and its soldiers. Likewise, Israel agreed to stop shooting at them," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. "Let's see how long that lasts. Hopefully it will be for ETERNITY!"

Donald Trump says Israel and Hezbollah have agreed to halt hostilities and that Iran talks are back on track. But within hours, projectiles were launched from Lebanon, and Benjamin Netanyahu signalled Israel could still strike Beirut under certain conditions. All you need to know.

'For ETERNITY': Trump says Israel, Hezbollah agreed to stop fighting, but fresh projectiles from Lebanon raise doubts

Israel on Tuesday (Jun 2) said it intercepted two projectiles launched from Lebanon. The incident raises fresh questions about the durability of efforts to calm tensions along Israel's northern border, just hours after US President Donald Trump expressed confidence that the fighting would soon come to an end. This comes as Trump, in what is being described as an "expletive-laden" call on Monday, told Netanyahu that his threats to bomb Beirut could isolate Israel further. "You're fucking crazy... I'm saving your ass," the POTUS told his Israeli counterpart, according to an Axios report.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-more-than-capable-of-restarting-war-with-iran-hegseth-amid-reports-of-depleted-missile-stockpiles-shangri-la-dialogue-security-summit-singapore-1780106328135">US 'more than capable' of restarting war with Iran, says Hegseth amid reports of depleted missile stockpiles</a><h2>Israel intercepts projectiles from Lebanon.</h2>According to the Israeli military, air raid sirens sounded across several communities in northern Israel at around 1:35 a.m. local time. Shortly afterwards, the Israeli Air Force intercepted two projectiles that had crossed into Israeli territory from Lebanon.The military also reported detecting what it described as a "suspicious aerial target" near the border. The object later fell inside Israeli territory. No injuries or damage were reported in either incident.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-s-russia-in-bizarre-plan-asks-bank-employees-to-shoot-down-ukrainian-drones-themselves-1779948348746">Putin's Russia in bizarre plan asks bank employees to shoot down Ukrainian drones themselves</a><h2>"You're fucking crazy"</h2>The projectile launches come as Netanyahu continues to threaten to bomb the Lebanese capital, even as Iran threatens to abandon negotiations with the US over Israel's actions.As Washington continues to push for de-escalation, Trump and the Israeli PM reportedly took part in a tense phone call. According to multiple US media reports, Trump expressed frustration over Israel's recent military actions in Lebanon, warning that further escalation could undermine diplomatic efforts and deepen Israel's international isolation."You're fucking crazy. You'd be in prison if it weren't for me. I'm saving your ass. Everybody hates you now. Everybody hates Israel because of this," reportedly said a "pissed" Trump. At one point in the call, he even yelled at Netanyahu: "What the fuck are you doing?"The reported exchange followed growing concerns in Washington that continued military operations in Lebanon could derail sensitive negotiations involving Iran. US officials cited by American media outlets said Trump believed Israel had the right to defend itself against attacks but was increasingly concerned about the scale of the response and the risk of a wider regional conflict.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.

Hours after Donald Trump reportedly lashed out at Benjamin Netanyahu in a heated phone call over threats to bomb Beirut, Israel says it intercepted two projectiles launched from Lebanon, raising fresh doubts about whether efforts to calm the conflict can hold. Scroll down for what happened.

Israel on Tuesday (Jun 2) said it intercepted two projectiles launched from Lebanon. The incident raises fresh questions about the durability of efforts to calm tensions along Israel's northern border, just hours after US President Donald Trump expressed confidence that the fighting would soon come to an end. This comes as Trump, in what is being described as an "expletive-laden" call on Monday, told Netanyahu that his threats to bomb Beirut could isolate Israel further. "You're fucking crazy... I'm saving your ass," the POTUS told his Israeli counterpart, according to an Axios report. Also read | US 'more than capable' of restarting war with Iran, says Hegseth amid reports of depleted missile stockpiles Israel intercepts projectiles from Lebanon. According to the Israeli military, air raid sirens sounded across several communities in northern Israel at around 1:35 a.m. local time. Shortly afterwards, the Israeli Air Force intercepted two projectiles that had crossed into Israeli territory from Lebanon. The military also reported detecting what it described as a "suspicious aerial target" near the border. The object later fell inside Israeli territory. No injuries or damage were reported in either incident. Also read | Putin's Russia in bizarre plan asks bank employees to shoot down Ukrainian drones themselves "You're fucking crazy" The projectile launches come as Netanyahu continues to threaten to bomb the Lebanese capital, even as Iran threatens to abandon negotiations with the US over Israel's actions. As Washington continues to push for de-escalation, Trump and the Israeli PM reportedly took part in a tense phone call. According to multiple US media reports, Trump expressed frustration over Israel's recent military actions in Lebanon, warning that further escalation could undermine diplomatic efforts and deepen Israel's international isolation. "You're fucking crazy. You'd be in prison if it weren't for me. I'm saving your ass. Everybody hates you now. Everybody hates Israel because of this," reportedly said a "pissed" Trump. At one point in the call, he even yelled at Netanyahu: "What the fuck are you doing?" The reported exchange followed growing concerns in Washington that continued military operations in Lebanon could derail sensitive negotiations involving Iran. US officials cited by American media outlets said Trump believed Israel had the right to defend itself against attacks but was increasingly concerned about the scale of the response and the risk of a wider regional conflict. 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.

Hours after Donald Trump reportedly lashed out at Benjamin Netanyahu in a heated phone call over threats to bomb Beirut, Israel says it intercepted two projectiles launched from Lebanon, raising fresh doubts about whether efforts to calm the conflict can hold. Scroll down for what happened.

Israel intercepts Lebanon projectiles hours after Trump’s ‘f***ing crazy’ call with Netanyahu

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (May 31) condemned the growing escalation in southern Lebanon, saying the intensifying conflict cannot be justified and calling for a lasting end to the violence.&nbsp;In a message posted on X after speaking with regional leaders, Macron said that “nothing justifies the major escalation underway in south Lebanon” and stressed the need to bring the violence “to an end for good”.&nbsp;Macron also stressed the importance of diplomacy, saying it was “essential” that the United States and Iran quickly reach an agreement to prevent further escalation in the region.&nbsp;“As for regional stability, it must begin with Lebanon, where it is urgent that the weapons fall silent—all of them, and for good. Nothing justifies the major escalation currently underway in southern Lebanon. France will continue its support for the Lebanese authorities in their efforts to restore state sovereignty and the country's territorial integrity,” he wrote on X.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council is set to hold an emergency meeting at France’s request on Lebanon on Monday, as mounting international concern grows over Israel’s expanding military offensive in the country’s south. The developments have raised fears of a broader regional conflict at a time when diplomatic efforts to stabilise West Asia remain fragile.&nbsp;“I have requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council because, while we recognise Israel's right, like that of all countries, to self-defence... nothing can justify the continuation of Israeli military operations in Lebanon and its ever-deeper occupation of Lebanese territory,” French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot told BFMTV channel on Sunday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dk-shivakumar-set-to-become-india-s-richest-chief-minister-all-you-need-to-know-about-him-1780247043186">DK Shivakumar set to become India’s richest Chief Minister: All you need to know about him</a><h2>Netanyahu calls Beaufort capture a ‘dramatic shift’</h2>On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to deepen military operations in Lebanon after Israeli forces captured the medieval Beaufort Castle, calling it a major turning point in the campaign against Hezbollah.&nbsp;Netanyahu said the takeover of the strategic site marked a significant shift in Israel’s military approach in Lebanon. “The capture of Beaufort is a dramatic stage and a dramatic shift in the policy we are leading,” Netanyahu said in a video message released by his office. “Now my directive is to deepen and expand our hold on areas that had been under Hezbollah’s control.”&nbsp;He also claimed that thousands of Hezbollah militants have been killed since the conflict escalated following the Hamas-led October 2023 attacks.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel will intensify military operations in Lebanon after its forces captured the medieval Beaufort Castle, describing it as a major turning point in the campaign against Hezbollah.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (May 31) condemned the growing escalation in southern Lebanon, saying the intensifying conflict cannot be justified and calling for a lasting end to the violence. In a message posted on X after speaking with regional leaders, Macron said that “nothing justifies the major escalation underway in south Lebanon” and stressed the need to bring the violence “to an end for good”. Macron also stressed the importance of diplomacy, saying it was “essential” that the United States and Iran quickly reach an agreement to prevent further escalation in the region. “As for regional stability, it must begin with Lebanon, where it is urgent that the weapons fall silent—all of them, and for good. Nothing justifies the major escalation currently underway in southern Lebanon. France will continue its support for the Lebanese authorities in their efforts to restore state sovereignty and the country's territorial integrity,” he wrote on X. Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council is set to hold an emergency meeting at France’s request on Lebanon on Monday, as mounting international concern grows over Israel’s expanding military offensive in the country’s south. The developments have raised fears of a broader regional conflict at a time when diplomatic efforts to stabilise West Asia remain fragile. “I have requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council because, while we recognise Israel's right, like that of all countries, to self-defence... nothing can justify the continuation of Israeli military operations in Lebanon and its ever-deeper occupation of Lebanese territory,” French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot told BFMTV channel on Sunday. Also Read: DK Shivakumar set to become India’s richest Chief Minister: All you need to know about him Netanyahu calls Beaufort capture a ‘dramatic shift’ On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to deepen military operations in Lebanon after Israeli forces captured the medieval Beaufort Castle, calling it a major turning point in the campaign against Hezbollah. Netanyahu said the takeover of the strategic site marked a significant shift in Israel’s military approach in Lebanon. “The capture of Beaufort is a dramatic stage and a dramatic shift in the policy we are leading,” Netanyahu said in a video message released by his office. “Now my directive is to deepen and expand our hold on areas that had been under Hezbollah’s control.” He also claimed that thousands of Hezbollah militants have been killed since the conflict escalated following the Hamas-led October 2023 attacks.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel will intensify military operations in Lebanon after its forces captured the medieval Beaufort Castle, describing it as a major turning point in the campaign against Hezbollah.

Macron says ‘nothing justifies’ South Lebanon escalation; UN to hold emergency meeting on Monday at France’s request

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (May 31) hailed Israel Defence Forces’ (IDF) capture of Lebanon’s historic Beaufort Castle and the surrounding strategic ridge, calling it a “dramatic shift” in the country’s policy as its forces expand operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. In a video message, the Israeli prime minister said that the seizure marked a significant milestone in Israel’s campaign in Lebanon.“The capture of Beaufort is a dramatic stage and a dramatic shift in the policy we are leading,” Netanyahu said in the video message released by his office. “Now my directive is to deepen and expand our hold on areas that had been under Hezbollah’s control.”Recalling the historic site, Netanyahu said that the Beaufort Castle “became a symbol of deep division within our society”. Captured by Israeli forces in during the 1982 First Lebanon War, the fortress remained under Israeli control throughout its 18-year presence in southern Lebanon before the withdrawal in 2000.“Today, we have returned to Beaufort differently. We have returned united, determined, and stronger than ever,” the Israeli PM said. “We have broken through the barrier of fear. We are taking the initiative. We are operating on all fronts — in Syria, Gaza, and Lebanon. We have established security zones beyond our borders in order to protect our communities.”<h2>‘Will complete the mission’</h2>The Israeli leader also claimed that 8,000 Hezbollah militants have been killed since the group began attacking Israel following the Hamas-led October 2023 attacks. While 3,000 were killed after Israel’s war with Iran began last year, 700 were killed in the past month alone, he said.“It will take time, but we will complete the mission,” Netanyahu added.Despite a ceasefire announced between Israel and Lebanon in mid-April, hostilities have continued. Thirteen Israelis have been killed since the truce took effect, including a soldier who was reportedly killed in a Hezbollah drone strike on Saturday night.<h2>France calls for UNSC emergency meeting</h2>Meanwhile, following the IDF capture of Beaufort castle in Lebanon, France has requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, the French foreign minister said on Sunday (May 31).“I have requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council because, while we recognise Israel’s right, like that of all countries, to self-defence... nothing can justify the continuation of Israeli military operations in Lebanon and its ever-deeper occupation of Lebanese territory,” Jean-Noel Barrot said on the BFMTV channel.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the capture of Lebanon’s Beaufort Castle as a major strategic victory against Hezbollah. Meanwhile, France called for an emergency UN Security Council meeting over Israel’s expanding operations.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (May 31) hailed Israel Defence Forces’ (IDF) capture of Lebanon’s historic Beaufort Castle and the surrounding strategic ridge, calling it a “dramatic shift” in the country’s policy as its forces expand operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. In a video message, the Israeli prime minister said that the seizure marked a significant milestone in Israel’s campaign in Lebanon. “The capture of Beaufort is a dramatic stage and a dramatic shift in the policy we are leading,” Netanyahu said in the video message released by his office. “Now my directive is to deepen and expand our hold on areas that had been under Hezbollah’s control.” Recalling the historic site, Netanyahu said that the Beaufort Castle “became a symbol of deep division within our society”. Captured by Israeli forces in during the 1982 First Lebanon War, the fortress remained under Israeli control throughout its 18-year presence in southern Lebanon before the withdrawal in 2000. “Today, we have returned to Beaufort differently. We have returned united, determined, and stronger than ever,” the Israeli PM said. “We have broken through the barrier of fear. We are taking the initiative. We are operating on all fronts — in Syria, Gaza, and Lebanon. We have established security zones beyond our borders in order to protect our communities.” ‘Will complete the mission’ The Israeli leader also claimed that 8,000 Hezbollah militants have been killed since the group began attacking Israel following the Hamas-led October 2023 attacks. While 3,000 were killed after Israel’s war with Iran began last year, 700 were killed in the past month alone, he said. “It will take time, but we will complete the mission,” Netanyahu added. Despite a ceasefire announced between Israel and Lebanon in mid-April, hostilities have continued. Thirteen Israelis have been killed since the truce took effect, including a soldier who was reportedly killed in a Hezbollah drone strike on Saturday night. France calls for UNSC emergency meeting Meanwhile, following the IDF capture of Beaufort castle in Lebanon, France has requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, the French foreign minister said on Sunday (May 31). “I have requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council because, while we recognise Israel’s right, like that of all countries, to self-defence... nothing can justify the continuation of Israeli military operations in Lebanon and its ever-deeper occupation of Lebanese territory,” Jean-Noel Barrot said on the BFMTV channel. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the capture of Lebanon’s Beaufort Castle as a major strategic victory against Hezbollah. Meanwhile, France called for an emergency UN Security Council meeting over Israel’s expanding operations.

‘We have returned stronger’: Netanyahu hails capture of Beaufort Castle in Lebanon

Israeli and Lebanese envoys are set to hold a fresh round of peace talks in Washington next week amid continued Israeli Defence Forces operations against the militant group Hezbollah, despite a US-brokered ceasefire being in place from April 15. A US State Department official confirmed on Thursday that the talks will take place on May 14 and 15. This will be the third such meeting in recent months between the two countries, which have technically remained at war for decades and do not maintain diplomatic relations.&nbsp;The renewed engagement comes even as tensions remain high on the ground. The conflict in Lebanon escalated alongside broader regional hostilities involving Israel and Iran, with Washington still awaiting Tehran’s response to its latest proposal aimed at de-escalating the wider Middle East crisis and restoring stability in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday said a peace deal between the parties was “eminently achievable,” adding that Hezbollah remains the primary obstacle rather than any direct dispute between the two governments.&nbsp;Lebanon was drawn deeper into the conflict after Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel, following the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The situation further intensified exchanges between Israeli forces and the Iran-backed group.&nbsp;A ceasefire framework involving Israel, Lebanon and Hezbollah was extended until May 15 after the previous round of talks in Washington. However, Israel has continued targeted strikes against Hezbollah positions, while the group has also claimed attacks on Israeli forces operating in southern Lebanon.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-tmc-chor-mahua-moitra-alleges-harassment-onboard-indigo-flight-blames-bjp-culture-1778176066725">‘TMC chor’: Mahua Moitra alleges harassment onboard IndiGo flight, blames ‘BJP culture’</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, US media outlet Axios reported, citing officials, that Washington and Tehran are close to finalising a one-page memorandum of understanding. The proposed document is expected to outline a framework to end hostilities and restart negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme.&nbsp;Oil markets reacted positively to the prospect of de-escalation, with Brent crude and US West Texas Intermediate prices falling around five per cent on Thursday, extending losses from earlier in the week. However, prices remain higher than pre-conflict levels.&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route carrying nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas trade, continues to remain under pressure amid ongoing instability in the region.

The current Washington sessions mark the first high-level direct diplomatic engagement between Israel and Lebanon in over 30 years.

Israeli and Lebanese envoys are set to hold a fresh round of peace talks in Washington next week amid continued Israeli Defence Forces operations against the militant group Hezbollah, despite a US-brokered ceasefire being in place from April 15. A US State Department official confirmed on Thursday that the talks will take place on May 14 and 15. This will be the third such meeting in recent months between the two countries, which have technically remained at war for decades and do not maintain diplomatic relations. The renewed engagement comes even as tensions remain high on the ground. The conflict in Lebanon escalated alongside broader regional hostilities involving Israel and Iran, with Washington still awaiting Tehran’s response to its latest proposal aimed at de-escalating the wider Middle East crisis and restoring stability in the Strait of Hormuz. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday said a peace deal between the parties was “eminently achievable,” adding that Hezbollah remains the primary obstacle rather than any direct dispute between the two governments. Lebanon was drawn deeper into the conflict after Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel, following the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The situation further intensified exchanges between Israeli forces and the Iran-backed group. A ceasefire framework involving Israel, Lebanon and Hezbollah was extended until May 15 after the previous round of talks in Washington. However, Israel has continued targeted strikes against Hezbollah positions, while the group has also claimed attacks on Israeli forces operating in southern Lebanon. Also Read: ‘TMC chor’: Mahua Moitra alleges harassment onboard IndiGo flight, blames ‘BJP culture’ Meanwhile, US media outlet Axios reported, citing officials, that Washington and Tehran are close to finalising a one-page memorandum of understanding. The proposed document is expected to outline a framework to end hostilities and restart negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme. Oil markets reacted positively to the prospect of de-escalation, with Brent crude and US West Texas Intermediate prices falling around five per cent on Thursday, extending losses from earlier in the week. However, prices remain higher than pre-conflict levels. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route carrying nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas trade, continues to remain under pressure amid ongoing instability in the region.

The current Washington sessions mark the first high-level direct diplomatic engagement between Israel and Lebanon in over 30 years.

Israel, Lebanon to hold fresh talks in Washington as US awaits Iran’s response to peace deal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (May 7) claimed responsibility for killing a commander of Hezbollah’s elite Radwan force in airstrikes in Beirut a day earlier. The attack marked the first Israeli strikes on the Lebanese capital since the ceasefire agreed upon last month. The Israeli military said that the commander was killed in the southern suburbs of Beirut following a strike. Although Hezbollah has not confirmed the death.In a video statement on Thursday, Netanyahu claimed responsibility for the attack that killed the commander, saying that “no terrorist is immune” from Israeli strikes.“Last night, we eliminated, in the heart of Beirut, the commander of Hezbollah's Radwan force,” Netanyahu said.“I say to our enemies in the clearest possible terms: no terrorist is immune. Anyone who threatens the State of Israel will die because of his actions,” he added.Earlier on Wednesday, the Israeli PM ‌and Defence Minister, Israel Katz, announced the attack in a joint statement.&nbsp;The strike comes amid ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to arrange a direct meeting between Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. Aoun, however, has said that such talks would require Israel to halt its attacks on Lebanon.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

Israel says it killed a Hezbollah Radwan force commander in a Beirut strike, marking the first attack on the Lebanese capital since last month’s ceasefire. Hezbollah has not confirmed the death.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (May 7) claimed responsibility for killing a commander of Hezbollah’s elite Radwan force in airstrikes in Beirut a day earlier. The attack marked the first Israeli strikes on the Lebanese capital since the ceasefire agreed upon last month. The Israeli military said that the commander was killed in the southern suburbs of Beirut following a strike. Although Hezbollah has not confirmed the death. In a video statement on Thursday, Netanyahu claimed responsibility for the attack that killed the commander, saying that “no terrorist is immune” from Israeli strikes. “Last night, we eliminated, in the heart of Beirut, the commander of Hezbollah's Radwan force,” Netanyahu said. “I say to our enemies in the clearest possible terms: no terrorist is immune. Anyone who threatens the State of Israel will die because of his actions,” he added. Earlier on Wednesday, the Israeli PM ‌and Defence Minister, Israel Katz, announced the attack in a joint statement. The strike comes amid ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to arrange a direct meeting between Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. Aoun, however, has said that such talks would require Israel to halt its attacks on Lebanon. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

Israel says it killed a Hezbollah Radwan force commander in a Beirut strike, marking the first attack on the Lebanese capital since last month’s ceasefire. Hezbollah has not confirmed the death.

‘In the heart of Beirut’: Netanyahu confirms killing Hezbollah commander in Israeli strikes

A photo circulating on social media reportedly shows a soldier placing a cigarette into the mouth of a statue of the Virgin Mary in a Christian village in southern Lebanon. The image was taken in Debel, the same village where another soldier was photographed last month smashing a statue of Jesus. The Israeli military said it is reviewing the incident but did not provide further immediate details.&nbsp;In April 2025, a soldier operating in Debel was seen in a photo destroying a statue of Jesus with a hammer, sparking widespread condemnation from Christian communities. Both the soldier involved and the one who documented the act were removed from combat duty and sentenced to 30 days in prison. Following the incident, the Israeli military attempted to install a more ornate replacement for the damaged statue. However, residents chose instead to reinstall a replica identical to the original.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warplane-fires-at-iranian-tanker-trying-to-breach-naval-blockade-amid-maritime-tensions-1778095362197">US warplane fires at Iranian tanker trying to breach naval blockade amid maritime tensions</a>&nbsp;“Following the completion of an initial examination regarding a photograph published earlier today of an IDF soldier harming a Christian symbol, it was determined that the photograph depicts an IDF soldier operating in southern Lebanon,” the IDF had said in the statement. “The IDF views the incident with great severity and emphasizes that the soldier’s conduct is wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops.” The following week, another controversy emerged in Debel after a video surfaced showing Israeli soldiers destroying civilian solar panels in the area.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/alzheimer-s-risk-reduces-by-27-on-eating-eggs-5-times-per-week-study-says-1778088568853/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/alzheimer-s-risk-reduces-by-27-on-eating-eggs-5-times-per-week-study-says-1778088568853/embed</a>&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

IDF investigates viral photo of soldier disrespecting Virgin Mary statue in Lebanon’s Debel, following earlier incidents involving Christian symbols

A photo circulating on social media reportedly shows a soldier placing a cigarette into the mouth of a statue of the Virgin Mary in a Christian village in southern Lebanon. The image was taken in Debel, the same village where another soldier was photographed last month smashing a statue of Jesus. The Israeli military said it is reviewing the incident but did not provide further immediate details. In April 2025, a soldier operating in Debel was seen in a photo destroying a statue of Jesus with a hammer, sparking widespread condemnation from Christian communities. Both the soldier involved and the one who documented the act were removed from combat duty and sentenced to 30 days in prison. Following the incident, the Israeli military attempted to install a more ornate replacement for the damaged statue. However, residents chose instead to reinstall a replica identical to the original. Also Read: US warplane fires at Iranian tanker trying to breach naval blockade amid maritime tensions “Following the completion of an initial examination regarding a photograph published earlier today of an IDF soldier harming a Christian symbol, it was determined that the photograph depicts an IDF soldier operating in southern Lebanon,” the IDF had said in the statement. “The IDF views the incident with great severity and emphasizes that the soldier’s conduct is wholly inconsistent with the values expected of its troops.” The following week, another controversy emerged in Debel after a video surfaced showing Israeli soldiers destroying civilian solar panels in the area. https://www.wionews.com/videos/alzheimer-s-risk-reduces-by-27-on-eating-eggs-5-times-per-week-study-says-1778088568853/embed Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

A photo circulating on social media reportedly shows a soldier disrespecting a Virgin Mary statue in Lebanon; the IDF investigates amid repeated controversies in the Christian village of Debel

IDF soldier sparks outrage after viral Virgin Mary statue photo in Lebanon

Israel carried out a strike in Beirut on Wednesday (May 6) evening, targeting a senior Hezbollah commander, marking the first attack in the Lebanese capital since the ceasefire agreement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement that Israel had targeted the commander of the elite Radwan force. The strike was coordinated in advance with the US, an Israeli source told CNN.&nbsp;Netanyahu did not identify the target but said that the Radwan force militants under his leadership were responsible for attacks on Israeli communities and soldiers. A joint statement with Defense Minister Israel Katz did not confirm whether the target had been killed. However, an Israeli official told CNN that the deputy commander of the Radwan force may have also been injured in the strike.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-very-good-chance-of-ending-war-iran-to-export-its-highly-enriched-uranium-to-us-says-trump-1778084157677">‘Very good chance of ending war, Iran to export its highly enriched uranium to US,’ says Trump</a>&nbsp;This marks a shift from Israel’s recent strategy, as it had avoided striking Beirut since the US-brokered ceasefire, focusing instead on southern Lebanon, actions it claimed were within the agreement’s scope. Earlier on Wednesday (May 6), Netanyahu said he expected to speak with President Donald Trump later that night. The strike comes amid ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to arrange a direct meeting between Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. Aoun, however, has said that such talks would require Israel to halt its attacks on Lebanon.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indigenous-communities-in-the-us-mark-awareness-day-for-missing-native-persons-1778084570805/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/indigenous-communities-in-the-us-mark-awareness-day-for-missing-native-persons-1778084570805/embed</a>&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

Israel launches Beirut strike targeting Hezbollah Radwan force commander, escalating tensions despite ceasefire and ongoing US diplomatic efforts

Israel carried out a strike in Beirut on Wednesday (May 6) evening, targeting a senior Hezbollah commander, marking the first attack in the Lebanese capital since the ceasefire agreement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement that Israel had targeted the commander of the elite Radwan force. The strike was coordinated in advance with the US, an Israeli source told CNN. Netanyahu did not identify the target but said that the Radwan force militants under his leadership were responsible for attacks on Israeli communities and soldiers. A joint statement with Defense Minister Israel Katz did not confirm whether the target had been killed. However, an Israeli official told CNN that the deputy commander of the Radwan force may have also been injured in the strike. Also Read: ‘Very good chance of ending war, Iran to export its highly enriched uranium to US,’ says Trump This marks a shift from Israel’s recent strategy, as it had avoided striking Beirut since the US-brokered ceasefire, focusing instead on southern Lebanon, actions it claimed were within the agreement’s scope. Earlier on Wednesday (May 6), Netanyahu said he expected to speak with President Donald Trump later that night. The strike comes amid ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to arrange a direct meeting between Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. Aoun, however, has said that such talks would require Israel to halt its attacks on Lebanon. https://www.wionews.com/videos/indigenous-communities-in-the-us-mark-awareness-day-for-missing-native-persons-1778084570805/embed Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

Israel strikes Beirut targeting Hezbollah commander, first attack since ceasefire agreement; tensions escalate amid US-backed diplomacy efforts

Israel strikes Beirut, targets Hezbollah commander in first attack since ceasefire

Marco Rubio said a potential peace agreement between Israel and Lebanon is achievable. However, he warned that the path forward will be complex and heavily dependent on addressing Hezbollah's influence. “I think a peace deal between Lebanon and Israel is eminently achievable and should be,” Rubio said during a briefing at the White House. “The problem with Israel and Lebanon is not Israel or Lebanon, it’s Hezbollah.”&nbsp;He said that the long-running tensions are rooted in the group’s role in the conflict. “This has been going on for a very long time,” he said later. “What is our hope? Our hope is to engage the Lebanese and Israeli governments under our mediation at the table to achieve this, and that is having Lebanese armed forces and a Lebanese government, not just with a willingness, but with the capability to begin to challenge Hezbollah and disarm them.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rubio-says-iran-cannot-be-allowed-to-control-strait-of-hormuz-defends-us-economic-pressure-campaign-1778010825387">Rubio says, 'Iran 'cannot be allowed' to control Strait of Hormuz'; defends US economic pressure campaign</a>&nbsp;The remarks come after Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon last month, alongside plans for direct talks between the two nations’ leaders in Washington aimed at reaching a lasting agreement. However, those high-level discussions have yet to take place. Rubio stressed that the United States remains committed to advancing the process. “It’s not going to be easy,” he said, adding, “This has been going on for a very long time.”&nbsp;“We’re going to do everything we can to make sure that both sides continue to talk so that progress can be made on some sort of permanent ceasefire that isn’t constantly spoiled by Hezbollah and by Hezbollah violence,” he said.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-us-hits-iranian-boats-intercepts-missiles-as-tensions-escalate-in-the-hormuz-strait-1777998212083/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-us-hits-iranian-boats-intercepts-missiles-as-tensions-escalate-in-the-hormuz-strait-1777998212083/embed</a>&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

Marco Rubio says Israel-Lebanon peace deal is achievable but depends on curbing Hezbollah influence and strengthening Lebanese forces

Marco Rubio said a potential peace agreement between Israel and Lebanon is achievable. However, he warned that the path forward will be complex and heavily dependent on addressing Hezbollah's influence. “I think a peace deal between Lebanon and Israel is eminently achievable and should be,” Rubio said during a briefing at the White House. “The problem with Israel and Lebanon is not Israel or Lebanon, it’s Hezbollah.” He said that the long-running tensions are rooted in the group’s role in the conflict. “This has been going on for a very long time,” he said later. “What is our hope? Our hope is to engage the Lebanese and Israeli governments under our mediation at the table to achieve this, and that is having Lebanese armed forces and a Lebanese government, not just with a willingness, but with the capability to begin to challenge Hezbollah and disarm them.” Also Read: Rubio says, 'Iran 'cannot be allowed' to control Strait of Hormuz'; defends US economic pressure campaign The remarks come after Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon last month, alongside plans for direct talks between the two nations’ leaders in Washington aimed at reaching a lasting agreement. However, those high-level discussions have yet to take place. Rubio stressed that the United States remains committed to advancing the process. “It’s not going to be easy,” he said, adding, “This has been going on for a very long time.” “We’re going to do everything we can to make sure that both sides continue to talk so that progress can be made on some sort of permanent ceasefire that isn’t constantly spoiled by Hezbollah and by Hezbollah violence,” he said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-us-hits-iranian-boats-intercepts-missiles-as-tensions-escalate-in-the-hormuz-strait-1777998212083/embed Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the 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.

Marco Rubio says Israel-Lebanon peace is possible but hinges on Lebanon’s ability to confront Hezbollah and sustain a lasting ceasefire

Israel-Lebanon peace 'achievable', but not easy. What’s really blocking it? Rubio answers

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Israel-Lebanon peace possible, not easy. Marco Rubio reveals what’s blocking it