Israel launches strikes on Lebanon; Iran says US deal near

Israel carried out air strikes on Lebanon on Wednesday, according to Lebanese state media. The attacks come as Iran’s foreign minister announced that a deal to end fighting with the United States is close. The strikes hit several areas in southern Lebanon, though details on casualties or damage remain unclear. The Israeli military has not yet commented on the operation. Meanwhile, in Tehran, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian stated that negotiations with the US are “close to reaching an agreement” to halt hostilities. He did not provide specifics on the terms or timeline. The twin developments mark a sharp escalation in regional tensions. Lebanon and Iran are both key allies, and any deal between Tehran and Washington could reshape the conflict landscape.