Lebanon was not informed of US-Iran deal or ceasefire timing, official says

Lebanon’s government appears to have been left in the dark regarding the recent U.S.-Iran agreement and the proposed ceasefire, according to an anonymous official speaking to AFP. The deal, which aims to deescalate tensions following a series of military confrontations between the two nations, includes provisions intended to halt Israeli aggression against Lebanese territory. Despite these efforts, the Lebanese authorities were not made aware of the specific terms or the exact timing of the ceasefire, raising concerns about transparency and coordination among regional stakeholders.

The agreement, reportedly finalized through diplomatic channels involving Pakistan as a mediator, marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict. While the U.S. and Iran have reached a mutual understanding, the implications for regional security remain complex. Israel, which has been a key player in the escalating tensions, has reportedly agreed to a ceasefire with Hizbollah, a powerful Shia militant group based in Lebanon. This development has led to a temporary reduction in hostilities, though the long-term stability of the region remains uncertain.

The announcement of the deal has had immediate economic repercussions, most notably a decline in global oil prices. Brent crude fell nearly 4.3%, reaching $83.55 per barrel, while U.S. crude dropped by 4.9% to $80.74. These drops reflect investor optimism about the potential resumption of oil flows through the critical Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime passage for approximately 20% of the world’s oil and LNG. However, analysts caution that the situation is far from resolved, citing the need to clear mines from the waterway—a process that could take several weeks or even months.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has scheduled an official signing ceremony for June 19 in Switzerland, signaling the formalization of the agreement. Meanwhile, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi confirmed via state television that the deal with the U.S. has been completed, underscoring the significance of the accord. President Donald Trump, however, took to social media to emphasize his support, declaring “let the oil flow!”—a statement that highlights the political and economic stakes involved.

In contrast, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, a close ally of Hizbollah, expressed appreciation for the agreement, praising the insistence of both the U.S. and Iran on including a binding clause aimed at stopping Israeli aggression against Lebanon. His comments suggest that the deal is seen as a step toward protecting Lebanese sovereignty, although the absence of prior consultation with Lebanon raises questions about the inclusivity of the negotiations.

Investors in Asian markets have responded positively to the news, with Japan’s Nikkei 225 index surging over 4.7% and South Korea’s Kospi climbing more than 5.2%. This reaction underscores the broader economic impact of the deal, particularly in regions heavily dependent on Middle Eastern oil imports. Energy market experts warn, however, that full normalization of oil trade through the Strait of Hormuz may not occur quickly. Clearing the waterway of mines and addressing the backlog of tankers waiting to transit could delay the restoration of pre-war oil flow rates for several weeks or longer.

As the situation continues to evolve, the international community watches closely. While the agreement represents a rare moment of cooperation between rival powers, the path to lasting peace remains fraught with challenges. The lack of transparency in informing Lebanon, combined with the complexities of restoring oil infrastructure, suggests that the road ahead will require sustained diplomatic engagement and careful management of regional dynamics.