Middle East crisis: Rubio says opening the strait of Hormuz is first condition in talks with Iran – as it happened

What Happened

Israeli forces continue military operations in southern Lebanon despite US President Donald Trump's claim that Israel and Hezbollah have agreed to "stop all shooting." The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported intercepting missiles fired from Lebanon this morning, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Israeli forces will maintain their presence and operations in southern Lebanon. Trump's assertion of a de-escalation agreement contradicts the ongoing exchange of fire and Israel's stated operational posture. The discrepancy between Trump's diplomatic characterization and the ground reality highlights either a breakdown in communication or a fundamental disagreement over the terms of any potential ceasefire. Separately, UK Labour MP Emily Thornberry, chair of the foreign affairs select committee, criticized her own government for failing to impose sufficient economic pressure on Israel to halt operations in the West Bank and Gaza, accusing the UK of letting down the Palestinian people.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The contradiction between Trump's diplomatic messaging and the continuation of Israeli military operations in Lebanon signals either a failed ceasefire negotiation or a fundamental misalignment between US diplomatic efforts and Israeli military strategy. Netanyahu's explicit commitment to ongoing operations undermines any claim of de-escalation and suggests Israel intends to maintain pressure on Hezbollah positions regardless of international diplomatic initiatives. This divergence complicates US mediation efforts and raises questions about Washington's leverage over Israeli decision-making. Thornberry's public criticism of UK policy reflects growing frustration within Western governments over the lack of effective mechanisms to influence Israeli conduct in Gaza and the West Bank, potentially signaling a shift in Labour's approach to the conflict despite the government's official stance.

Watch For

Monitor whether the IDF expands or contracts its operational footprint in southern Lebanon over the coming days, which will clarify whether Netanyahu's statement represents a temporary posture or a long-term commitment. Track any formal US or international response to the gap between Trump's ceasefire claim and the reality on the ground, including whether Washington issues clarifications or applies diplomatic pressure. Watch for further statements from UK government ministers in response to Thornberry's criticism, particularly regarding potential sanctions or policy shifts toward Israel. Any Hezbollah retaliatory strikes or escalation in missile fire from Lebanon will indicate whether the group views Trump's statement as credible or dismisses it entirely.