Tel Aviv/Islamabad: A fresh disagreement has surfaced over the scope of the recently announced ceasefire between the United States and Iran, with Israel asserting that Lebanon is not covered under the arrangement—contradicting earlier claims made by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
In an official statement, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office said it supports U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to pause strikes against Iran for two weeks, provided Tehran reopens key maritime routes and halts attacks on the U.S., Israel, and other regional countries.
However, Israel clarified that the ceasefire is limited in scope and “does not include Lebanon,” emphasizing that the truce remains conditional rather than comprehensive.
The statement also reiterated support for ongoing U.S. efforts to curb Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities, as well as its regional influence, adding that Washington has assured Israel of continued coordination on these objectives through upcoming diplomatic engagements.
In contrast, Sharif had earlier announced that an “immediate ceasefire everywhere including Lebanon and elsewhere” had come into effect, calling it a wise and constructive step by both Washington and Tehran. He also invited delegations from both sides to Islamabad on April 10 for further talks, expressing hope that the proposed discussions would pave the way for lasting peace.
The conflicting narratives have created uncertainty over the exact contours of the ceasefire, even as diplomatic efforts intensify to stabilise a region that has witnessed rising tensions over the past several weeks. The inclusion—or exclusion—of sensitive flashpoints such as Lebanon is expected to play a crucial role in determining the durability of the truce.
