U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance has expressed that Washington ultimately seeks for the Lebanese government to assert its authority in southern Lebanon.
Vance clarified that President Donald Trump has shown frustration over Israeli air raids targeting Beirut, while emphasizing that any Hezbollah attack on Israel is "unacceptable, regardless of its scale."
He highlighted that the United States continues to pursue Hezbollah's funding networks.
Vance stated, "We are in constant talks with the Israelis, and President Trump has made it clear that Israel must respect the ongoing peace process."
Regarding Iran, Vance noted that the 60-day negotiation period with Tehran has officially commenced, stressing that economic benefits are linked to Iran's compliance and behavioral change.
He added that "the only way for Iranians to receive funds is through their commitment and change in behavior."
He also noted that there were no reported Iranian attacks on ships last night, explaining that any final agreement would prevent Iran from possessing missiles that threaten the world, while also seeking to empower what he called "rational actors" within the Iranian regime.
On the topic of the Strait of Hormuz, Vance stressed that the final negotiations will determine the post-60-day period arrangements, emphasizing the necessity of keeping the strait free of any tolls and ensuring freedom of navigation in collaboration with regional countries under any future agreement.