By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Lebanon and Israel will hold a second round of ceasefire talks in Washington on Thursday, as Lebanese officials seek a one-month truce extension, an end to Israeli strikes, and a firm commitment to peace terms, according to sources familiar with the negotiations.
Lebanon Pushes for Ceasefire Extension
Lebanon plans to request a one-month extension of the existing ceasefire. Officials also want Israel to stop bombing areas where its forces remain.
Moreover, the talks come amid continued violence. Israeli strikes reportedly killed five people on Wednesday, despite the truce.
Lebanese authorities say Israeli attacks have killed over 2,450 people since the war began.
Journalists and Peacekeepers Among Victims
The conflict has also affected civilians and media workers. Amal Khalil, a journalist with Al-Akhbar, died in an الإسرائيلي strike near the border. Meanwhile, her colleague Zeinab Faraj sustained injuries.
In addition, a second French peacekeeper died after a weekend ambush. Emmanuel Macron confirmed the development. Hezbollah has denied involvement in the attack.
US, Iran, and Naval Escalation
Tensions have expanded beyond land. The United States has increased naval pressure on Iran under orders from Donald Trump.
US forces have intercepted vessels and enforced a blockade targeting Iranian-linked shipping. CENTCOM also ordered 31 ships to turn back.
In response, Iran warned that ships must seek permission to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
Ships Seized in Strategic Waterway
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards seized two vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. They identified the ships as MSC Francesca and Epaminondas.
Panama described the seizure as a serious maritime security threat. Meanwhile, UK-based monitors reported attacks on commercial vessels in the region.
Notably, one ship came under fire near Oman but reported no casualties.
Ceasefire Violations Threaten Peace Efforts
Both sides have accused each other of violating the ceasefire. Iran insists that the US naval blockade undermines peace.
Iranian officials argue that reopening the Strait of Hormuz is impossible under current conditions.
At the same time, diplomatic efforts continue. Pakistan has attempted to mediate between the parties, although progress remains uncertain.
Oil Prices Surge Amid Uncertainty
Oil markets reacted quickly to the rising tensions. Prices jumped sharply before easing slightly.
- West Texas Intermediate rose over 4 percent to $96.73 per barrel
- Brent crude increased 3.62 percent to $105.63
The gains reflect fears of supply disruption through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route.
Outlook: Fragile Peace and High Stakes
The situation remains volatile. While talks continue, violence and naval confrontations threaten progress.
However, the ceasefire extension offers a narrow window for diplomacy. The outcome of the Washington talks may shape the region’s next phase.
