Overview
- A U.S.-mediated agreement announced June 4 renewed a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon on the condition that Hezbollah stop attacks and withdraw from the south, with Lebanese forces to take control of buffer zones.
- President Donald Trump intervened directly to press Israel to halt strikes in Beirut, a phone call reported June 2 that U.S. officials say convinced Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reverse planned operations.
- Israel expanded ground and air operations north of the Litani into areas near Nabatieh and Dahiyeh, causing civilian casualties and prompting Iran to protest and at times suspend communications with U.S. negotiators.
- U.S. Central Command said U.S. forces neutralized several Iranian ballistic missiles and drones and struck targets including on Qeshm island in self-defense after a wave of Iranian missile and drone launches that also struck or targeted bases in Kuwait and Bahrain.
- Domestic politics are constraining leaders: the U.S. House passed a largely symbolic withdrawal resolution, Hezbollah was excluded from talks so its continued attacks could void the ceasefire, and officials warn the pause could unravel if new battlefield moves produce more casualties.