Israel, Lebanon extend ceasefire as Iran says it "cannot trust" U.S. in negotiations

Israel and Lebanon agreed to extend their ceasefire by 45 days following negotiations in Washington, D.C., but clashes resumed immediately. The Israeli military conducted airstrikes on Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon, targeting sites in five villages near Sidon and Nabatieh. Residents of nine villages had been warned to evacuate ahead of the strikes, with many fleeing toward Beirut. The ceasefire extension came after direct talks between Israeli and Lebanese envoys, the first in decades, facilitated by the U.S. Despite the truce, Hezbollah—backed by Iran—continued attacks on northern Israel and southern Lebanon, where it occupies parts of the territory. Lebanon’s delegation described the ceasefire extension as a step toward lasting stability, urging international support to strengthen its negotiating position. In parallel, Iran announced plans to manage commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, charging fees for passage while blocking U.S.-aligned vessels under 'Project Freedom.' Iranian officials stated that only vessels cooperating with Tehran would be permitted, signaling defiance toward U.S. influence in the region. Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, reiterated distrust in U.S. negotiations, calling the ceasefire 'shaky.' Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned 'reckless' wars fought for foreign interests, emphasizing Lebanon’s need for Arab and international backing in ongoing talks with Israel. Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed during an interview that America had effectively neutralized Iran’s armed forces in the Strait of Hormuz, though no independent verification was provided.