Debate over Lebanon's inclusion in US-Iran ceasefire

On April 8, 2026, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam contacted his Pakistani counterpart, Shehbaz Sharif, to seek confirmation that a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran covers Lebanon. This request follows significant Israeli airstrikes that resulted in over 200 fatalities. Prime Minister Sharif had previously stated that the ceasefire, agreed upon by the U.S., Iran, and their allies, would apply universally, including Lebanon. However, both the United States and Israel have denied that the ceasefire agreement extends to Lebanon, where Israeli military operations continue. European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has publicly supported the inclusion of Lebanon in the ceasefire, joining similar calls from France and the United Kingdom. The Lebanese government is actively seeking this verification to prevent further escalation of military actions. The situation remains volatile as the international community attempts to clarify the scope of the ceasefire terms.