Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire Talks: The US says Israel and Lebanon agreed to a conditional ceasefire in Washington, tied to Hezbollah stopping attacks and withdrawing from the South Litani area, plus “pilot zones” where the Lebanese army would hold exclusive control—yet Hezbollah immediately rejected the framework, calling it humiliating and demanding full Israeli withdrawal. Ceasefire Under Fire: Despite the announcement, Israeli strikes continued across southern Lebanon, with reports of deaths and injuries in places including Tyre and near Jabal Amel Hospital, while Hezbollah vowed to keep fighting and threatened northern Israel. UNIFIL Hit: India condemned a mortar attack that killed a Serbian UN peacekeeper near Marjayoun and injured two others; UNIFIL launched an investigation as tensions stay high. Lebanon’s State vs Armed Groups: The “pilot zones” concept is sparking debate in Lebanon over whether it restores state authority or locks in Israeli aims without guaranteed withdrawal. EU Support for the Lebanese Army: The EU approved €100M to strengthen the Lebanese army and reduce the threat posed by Hezbollah, as skirmishes continue. Justice and Finance: France charged HSBC’s Swiss unit in the Riad Salameh embezzlement probe, adding pressure to Lebanon’s long-running financial reckoning. Church and National Identity: Patriarch Elias Hoayek, a key figure in Lebanon’s modern history, is set for beatification on 25 July.