BEIRUT — Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon is expected to halt as part of terms in a U.S.-Iran agreement to end their broader conflict, officials said Tuesday.
The development follows weeks of negotiations and comes amid a fragile regional situation linked to the 2026 Iran war. U.S. officials announced an initial agreement with Iran that includes a cessation of military operations on multiple fronts, including Lebanon, according to reports from multiple outlets citing diplomatic sources.
Details of how the agreement will apply specifically to the Israel-Hezbollah front remained unclear as of Tuesday. Iranian officials have stated that the deal requires a halt to Israeli operations in Lebanon, while Israeli leaders have indicated that their forces would remain in certain areas and retain the right to respond to threats.
The conflict in Lebanon escalated in early March 2026 after Hezbollah launched attacks on Israel in connection with the wider Iran-related hostilities. Israel responded with airstrikes and ground operations in southern Lebanon.
Lebanese and Israeli officials had previously reached understandings on ceasefire implementation, including the creation of security zones in southern Lebanon where Hezbollah activities would be restricted, mediated by the United States. Hezbollah rejected some earlier proposals, demanding a full Israeli withdrawal.
A senior U.S. official, speaking on background, noted that while violence had decreased under prior arrangements, sporadic exchanges continued.
Iran, a key backer of Hezbollah, conditioned aspects of its agreement with the U.S. on addressing the Lebanon situation. Pakistani officials, involved in mediation, referenced terms covering Lebanon, though U.S. and Israeli statements have differed on the exact scope.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday that Israel’s “struggle is not over” and pledged to maintain security zones in Lebanon as long as necessary.
Casualty figures from the Lebanon fighting vary by source and remain difficult to verify independently. Lebanese authorities have reported thousands killed and injured since March, along with more than one million displaced. Israeli officials have reported military and civilian losses from Hezbollah attacks.
The U.S.-Iran deal also addresses reopening the Strait of Hormuz and other measures to ease economic pressures, according to announcements.
As of Tuesday, fighting in southern Lebanon had eased following the agreement’s announcement, though isolated incidents were reported, officials and media said. Lebanese authorities urged displaced residents not to return home immediately.
Both sides have accused each other of violations in prior ceasefire attempts. Implementation of any halt will depend on compliance by all parties involved, diplomats indicated.
