US‑Iran ceasefire deal spurs international concern over Lebanon fighting

The United States and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding that ends hostilities on all fronts, calls for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, launches a 60‑day nuclear negotiation period and creates a $300 billion fund for Iran’s reconstruction while lifting U.S. sanctions. French President Emmanuel Macron said he does not believe the war is fully over, urging Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to act responsibly and to allow the Lebanese army to regain control of its territory. Japan’s government expressed “deep concern” over continued Israel‑Hezbollah attacks in Lebanon, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and strict observance of international humanitarian law. Netanyahu reaffirmed that Israeli forces will remain in occupied parts of southern Lebanon despite the agreement.

The agreement, brokered after a G7 summit, aims to reduce regional tensions, but the ongoing exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah keep the risk of escalation alive, prompting diplomatic calls from France, Japan and other international actors for a durable cease‑fire.