Fragile US-Iran ceasefire faces collapse amid escalating conflict in Lebanon

A two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, brokered by Pakistan, is nearing collapse following intensive Israeli airstrikes in Beirut. While Iran asserts that the ceasefire should include a cessation of hostilities in Lebanon based on its 10-point plan, U.S. President Donald Trump maintains that the agreement does not cover Lebanon and describes the strikes as a separate conflict. Tensions have further escalated as Iranian authorities warned that the Strait of Hormuz is closed to all vessels without prior permission, threatening to target and destroy any ships attempting unauthorized passage. Iranian leadership, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, insists that an end to the fighting in Lebanon is a fundamental condition of their agreement. Conversely, U.S. officials, including Vice President J.D. Vance, argue there was a misunderstanding and no such promise was made regarding the Lebanese front. Upcoming diplomatic talks scheduled for Saturday in Pakistan remain in jeopardy as Iran demands a comprehensive ceasefire across all fronts. Meanwhile, reports of regional attacks on infrastructure in the Gulf countries have further complicated the security landscape.