Israel, Hezbollah ceasefire takes effect in Lebanon, officials say

A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah group has taken effect, according to statements from U.S. and Israeli officials. A U.S. official said the ceasefire came into force at 4 p.m. local time on Friday.

The announcement followed a day of continued fighting in southern Lebanon. Reports indicated that approximately 18 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes hours before the ceasefire began. Israel also reported that four of its soldiers were killed during the latest round of hostilities.

Israel Defense Forces spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin confirmed the ceasefire, saying Israeli forces are currently operating under the agreement. He added that the military remains prepared to resume operations if required.

The Israeli military also claimed that it targeted 80 Hezbollah-linked sites before the ceasefire took effect and said dozens of Hezbollah members were killed. Connect Newsroom has not independently verified those claims.

The development comes a day after the United States and Iran reportedly signed an agreement aimed at reducing conflict in the Middle East. According to officials, the agreement includes provisions for a lasting ceasefire in Lebanon.