Iran and Israel Halt Attacks, Tehran Sets Conditions for Agreement with US

An Iranian official has told Al Jazeera that it is impossible to reach any agreement unless Iran’s frozen funds are released and imposed sanctions are lifted. He added that Washington has made changes to the draft memorandum of understanding, which he deemed unacceptable. The official also emphasised that any violation of the ceasefire could affect the course of negotiations, asserting that Iran will not be lenient in response to such breaches. He further noted that regional stability and security can only be achieved through a tangible mechanism of deterrence against all forms of aggression.

In a similar vein, another Iranian source told Al Jazeera that the United States has altered the text of the ceasefire agreement on several occasions, changes which Iran does not accept. The source maintained that without the initial release of Iranian assets and the removal of sanctions, no agreement can be reached. He also argued that the maritime blockade imposed by the United States has, thus far, primarily disadvantaged Washington’s own allies.

Regarding Iran’s attack on Israel the previous night, an Iranian security source told Al Jazeera that a new equation has emerged concerning attacks on the Southern Dahiyeh area in Beirut, Lebanon. According to the source, realities on the ground have proven that Iran is capable of achieving its objectives. He asserted that any new Israeli attack on Southern Dahiyeh, or any attempt to assassinate Hezbollah leaders and political officials, will be met with a military response without prior warning.

On Monday afternoon, Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Military Headquarters announced the cessation of Iranian armed forces’ operations against Israel. Shortly thereafter, Israel also confirmed the cessation of its attacks against Iran. However, this cessation of attacks does not extend to the territory of Southern Lebanon.