ISLAMABAD (AP) — A senior U.S. administration official says U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to discuss plans to demine the Strait of Hormuz with allies during next week’s Group of Seven summit in France. The official, who briefed reporters on the condition of anonymity on ground rules set by the White House, said Trump also plans to meet on the sideline of the summit with the leaders of Egypt, Qatar and United Arab Emirates to discuss efforts to wind down the Iran war. The summit begins Monday. Britain and France, who are both members of the G7, have expressed interest in assisting with demining the critical waterway once the conflict is paused.
Lebanese army withdraws from southern village after Israeli troops advance nearby
BEIRUT (AP) — The Lebanese army has withdrawn its troops from a base in a southern village after Israeli forces advanced nearby. The move follows an Israeli evacuation warning for about 20 locations, including Nabatiyeh. Lebanon’s National News Agency reported airstrikes on Saturday, with two people killed in Deir al-Zahrani. Israeli troops are likely targeting the strategic Ali Taher hill. The push comes after Pakistan’s prime minister announced that the U.S. and Iran are working on an agreement to end their Middle East conflict, which could include Lebanon. Attacks by Israel and Hezbollah continue despite a ceasefire.
What to know about a possible deal to end the Iran war
ISLAMABAD (AP) — The United States and Iran appear close to a deal to end the war and open the Strait of Hormuz. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Saturday that a deal aimed at ending the war was closer than ever before and expected to be finalized within 24 hours. Pakistan is preparing for the electronic signing of the agreement, followed immediately by technical-level talks next week. But the White House did not answer questions about where things stood in negotiations or when a deal might be signed. Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson said no signing would occur Sunday while leaving the possibility open for the coming days.
