Key facts
- Hezbollah claimed responsibility for a drone attack on an Israeli military position in southern Lebanon.
- Israel has continued airstrikes across southern Lebanon, resulting in civilian casualties.
- The US and Iran are reportedly nearing a peace deal, with differing views on the signing timeline.
- The potential deal includes lifting US port blockades, ending hostilities, and releasing frozen Iranian assets.
- Republican lawmakers expressed criticism of Iran and support for Trump's negotiating approach.
- Lebanon fears being excluded from the deal, potentially leading to further Israeli strikes.
Hezbollah claimed responsibility for a drone attack targeting an Israeli military position in Hula, southern Lebanon, amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes in the region. The group released footage purportedly showing the downing of an Israeli Heron 1 drone over the Bekaa Valley.
Meanwhile, the United States and Iran appear to be nearing a peace deal, though both sides differ on the signing timeline. US President Donald Trump suggested the agreement could be signed as early as Sunday, describing it as a "wall to no nuclear weapon" and stating the Strait of Hormuz would "open to all" once signed. Iran's Foreign Minister indicated the deal includes lifting US port blockades, ending hostilities across all fronts, and releasing frozen Iranian assets.
Despite reports of a potential deal, Israel has continued its airstrikes in southern Lebanon, resulting in civilian casualties. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich threatened severe retaliation against Beirut's suburbs for any attacks on Israel. Lebanon expressed concerns about being excluded from the US-Iran agreement, fearing a repeat of past Israeli strikes. The Israeli Army also reported a false alarm regarding a hostile aircraft infiltration near Metula.
In Gaza, two people were killed in an Israeli strike, according to Palestinian authorities. Republican lawmakers have criticized Iran's nuclear program, with some supporting Trump's approach to negotiations while others expressed skepticism about the regime's intentions. President Trump's public schedule for Sunday did not include a signing ceremony for the Iran deal. Separately, reports emerged of Somaliland's president planning a visit to Israel.