Security discussions between Israel and Lebanon are scheduled for Friday at the Pentagon, Lebanese media outlets reported, following a week in which Israeli military activities intensified along the border and forces advanced further into Lebanese territory. Lebanon's Aljadeed TV stated on Thursday, based on information from unidentified sources, that the gathering would likely facilitate wider political discussions set for June 2.
A military delegation would be led by a brigadier, according to reports from the region. Gen. Georges Rizkallah oversees operational activities for the military forces in Lebanon. The delegation aims to advocate for strengthening the ceasefire, which faces pressure from continued hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Lebanese representatives are anticipated to submit documentation detailing obstacles the government encounters in removing Hezbollah's weapons and difficulties the military experiences while executing its national security responsibilities. Officials from Israel are anticipated to advocate for coordinated security measures and border enforcement mechanisms, including a proposed shared command centre that may prove controversial within Lebanon.
On Friday, military authorities directed inhabitants of several Lebanese communities to leave immediately, stating that militant operations were taking place in proximity to residential areas.
Iranian state media reported Thursday evening that negotiations between Tehran and Washington have not reached a confirmed agreement, with a source familiar with the discussions stating that no final text has been shared with Pakistani intermediaries. Upon completion of the text, officials indicated that Iran would disclose the information through the Pakistani intermediary and to the public.
Rubio is scheduled to meet with Pakistani officials on Friday morning while indirect discussions between the two nations proceed, with Pakistan serving as an intermediary. According to the public schedule, the 10 a.m. Washington meeting will include Hooker, the Under Secretary for Political Affairs, alongside Dar, who holds the position of deputy prime minister. The gathering occurs amid ongoing discussions between the two nations regarding a potential agreement to prolong their truce by two months and initiate negotiations concerning Tehran's nuclear activities.
On Thursday, the Treasury Department announced financial restrictions targeting companies reportedly facilitating petroleum exports for Iran's military-controlled oil enterprise, part of efforts to limit revenue from sales to markets including China. According to the department's statement, the military-controlled petroleum enterprise relies on a network of vessels operating outside standard regulatory frameworks for oil transport, with the new sanctions affecting multiple Hong Kong-registered entities including vessel charterers, two proxy firms for the military-run operation, and a supplier of refined petroleum to Iran's state oil enterprise. Sanctions were imposed on eight vessels as well.
Vice President JD Vance indicated Thursday that negotiators have not yet finalized an agreement with Iran, though discussions have advanced considerably and efforts continue. Vance noted that negotiations continue on several language details, stating that Iranian representatives are seeking an agreement while deliberations persist on matters including potential limitations to Iran's nuclear activities. The vice president stated that negotiations appeared to be proceeding in good faith with some advancement, expressing hope for continued movement toward an agreement the president could support, though the outcome remained undecided.
Sources indicated earlier that day a provisional understanding had been drafted for a 60-day extension of the U.S.-Iran ceasefire and the initiation of nuclear talks, awaiting presidential approval. Iran has yet to deliver its answer to the most recent draft.
An interim 60-day understanding regarding Iran's nuclear discussions has been negotiated and awaits presidential authorization, according to officials who briefed reporters. The news organization initially disclosed the preliminary deal. Scott Bessent, the Treasury Secretary, will hold a press briefing on Thursday afternoon.
Previously, the former president voiced opposition to such arrangements. On Wednesday, Mr. Trump stated that any agreement must be beneficial, noting that Iran appeared to be providing necessary concessions, and if not, he indicated his colleague would take decisive action against them.