The US-Iran peace deal is facing fresh challenges as Israel’s actions in Lebanon threaten to derail negotiations. Iran refused to participate in scheduled delegation-level talks in Geneva, accusing Israel of violating the agreement through renewed military strikes in southern Lebanon. The attacks, which reportedly killed 18 people, have heightened tensions and prompted Hezbollah retaliation. Before signing the deal, US President Donald Trump had publicly urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to act responsibly, fearing that continued operations in Lebanon could jeopardize the agreement. The deal reportedly calls for military operations to cease and for Lebanon’s sovereignty to be respected. However, Netanyahu insists Israel must retain control over parts of southern Lebanon for security reasons and opposes withdrawing troops. Senior Israeli ministers have also taken a hard line, rejecting external pressure. In response, US Vice President JD Vance warned that Israel should not undermine its strongest ally, emphasizing America’s critical military and financial support for Israel.


