Tensions in Lebanon persist despite a ceasefire between the US and Iran, with Hezbollah’s leader demanding the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the country. Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah operatives resulted in the death of at least seven individuals, while four Israeli soldiers, including two officers, were injured in retaliatory attacks. These actions violate US President Donald Trump’s 60-day peaceful negotiation agreement.

The violence escalated as the Israeli Defence Force launched an operation at the Ali Taher ridge, where a group of Hezbollah fighters is located in a vast tunnel network. The IDF emphasized its commitment to preventing Hezbollah militants from leaving the tunnels or operating in the area. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem asserted Iran’s strength in reaching an understanding, viewing it as a defeat for the US and Israel, while demanding Israel’s complete withdrawal from Lebanese territory.

Amid ongoing turmoil, Israel justified maintaining a significant troop presence in Lebanon to defend against Hezbollah threats and safeguard border communities. The situation led to a halt in the evacuation of around 11,000 sailors stranded in the Strait of Hormuz following an Iranian attack on a cargo ship.

Recent confrontations involving Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) heightened tensions in the region, with an incident involving a missile strike on a Singapore-flagged ship. Despite the challenges, several vessels, including eight South Korean ships, managed to navigate through the Strait of Hormuz due to the recent US-Iran ceasefire.

Approximately 40 to 60 ships have passed through the strait in recent days, a significant decrease from the pre-war traffic levels. Iran’s naval authorities criticized unauthorized ship routes, warning against violations and emphasizing their control over the strategic waterway.