US responds to Hezbollah chief's rejection of Israel-Lebanon agreement

Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem declared the results of direct negotiations between Lebanese authorities and Israel as "pointless, humiliating, and rejected by wide segments." An American source, cited by Lebanese LBCI network, responded: "We have followed the statements of Sheikh Naim Qassem, and we rely on actions, not words." The source emphasized the agreement initially addresses de-escalation leading to a permanent ceasefire, with Israeli forces withdrawing from a pilot area where the Lebanese army will deploy. The agreement is described as "a last opportunity," warning that missing it "will mean the price will be heavy for everyone."