Iran: Netanyahu bombs Beirut and shakes the agreement, Trump's anger - Liveblog

On June 16, significant developments unfolded in the ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran, marking a pivotal moment in their diplomatic relations. The agreement, which had been previously announced, was set to be formally signed on Friday at a resort located on Lake Lucerna in Switzerland. This signing would represent a major shift in the geopolitical landscape, potentially easing tensions that have persisted for years. However, the situation remains complex and volatile, with multiple factors influencing its trajectory.

The day after the announcement of the peace agreement between Iran and the United States, digital signatures were reportedly exchanged by President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and Iranian negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. Meanwhile, the price of oil continued to decline, and anticipation grew regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil trade. Reports indicated three explosions in the Strait south of Qeshm Island, raising concerns about potential disruptions to maritime traffic and regional stability.

Hezbollah, a powerful Lebanese group backed by Iran, stated that Iran would not agree to a nuclear deal without the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon. According to reports, Hezbollah received assurances from Iran that they would demand the Israeli military's exit from Lebanon during subsequent talks with the United States. This condition highlights the intricate web of relationships and dependencies among Middle Eastern nations, where each move can trigger a chain reaction affecting regional dynamics.

President Trump expressed his intention to submit the agreement with Iran to the U.S. Congress, indicating a desire for legislative oversight and validation of the deal. During a meeting with the President of the United Arab Emirates at the G7 summit in France, Trump mentioned that he planned to hold a press conference to publicly read the text of the memorandum, ensuring transparency and public awareness of the document’s contents. This approach underscores the importance of public perception and political support for such agreements.

Meanwhile, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced the cancellation of certain elements of the Hebron Accords, a 1997 agreement between Israel and Palestine under the Oslo Accords. These changes involve shifting control over planning and construction in the Jewish settlement of Hebron and the Tomb of the Patriarchs back to full Israeli management. Smotrich criticized the previous arrangement, describing it as one of the most absurd clauses of the Oslo Accords, given the perceived hostility of the local municipality.

Reza Pahlavi, son of the last Shah of Iran, voiced strong opposition to the agreement, predicting its failure and condemning it as both morally reprehensible and strategically flawed. He emphasized the need for international support against the Iranian regime, which he claimed has oppressed its citizens and caused instability in the region. His statements reflect broader skepticism within the Iranian diaspora and among critics who believe that any compromise with the current regime will not yield lasting peace.

Teheran confirmed that the United States had begun lifting the naval blockade imposed on Iran. This development could signal a thawing of hostilities and a step towards normalization of relations. However, the recent Israeli airstrikes on southern Beirut, targeting Hezbollah positions, have raised alarms and threatened to derail the agreement. The attacks prompted immediate responses from Iran, with officials warning of imminent retaliation.

The situation is further complicated by internal politics within both countries. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces pressure to avoid appearing weak ahead of upcoming elections, while Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and the National Security Council, remain cautious about any concessions that might weaken their position domestically. The involvement of external actors, such as Pakistan and Qatar, adds another layer of complexity to the negotiations, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the diplomatic efforts.

As the deadline approaches for the formal signing of the agreement, the stakes remain high. The success of this initiative hinges on maintaining calm in the region and avoiding further escalations. Both sides must navigate domestic pressures and regional rivalries to ensure that the agreement holds. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether this tentative peace can withstand the challenges posed by conflicting interests and historical grievances.