Beirut residents hope US-Iran deal brings ceasefire to Lebanon

Beirut residents voiced cautious hope Sunday that a potential US-Iran agreement could bring a broader ceasefire to Lebanon, where war has dragged on despite multiple truce efforts. "We hope the agreement is reached and a ceasefire starts. Even if only for 60 days, it would allow people to catch their breath," said Mahmoud Shair, walking along Beirut's seaside corniche. Another resident, Ali Assaf, said Lebanon's inclusion in any deal is essential: "When Iran makes a promise, it keeps its promise. We are definitely part of the agreement, 100%." The comments came as US and Pakistani leaders forecast a Sunday signing of a framework agreement to end months of U.S.-Iran fighting, though Tehran cast doubt on the timing and hardline protesters voiced opposition. Israel, which says it is not a party to the deal, struck more than 70 sites in Lebanon over a 24-hour period targeting Hezbollah, as displaced families remain living in tents in Beirut's southern suburbs.