English LCCC Newsbulletin For Lebanese, Lebanese Related, Global News
& Editorials
For June 22/2026
Compiled & Prepared by: Elias Bejjani
#elias_bejjani_news
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Bible Quotations For today
You received without payment; give without payment
Matthew 10/08-15: "Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the
lepers, cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment.
Take no gold, or silver, or copper in your belts, no bag for your journey, or
two tunics, or sandals, or a staff; for labourers deserve their food. Whatever
town or village you enter, find out who in it is worthy, and stay there until
you leave. As you enter the house, greet it. If the house is worthy, let your
peace come upon it; but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. If
anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from
your feet as you leave that house or town. Truly I tell you, it will be more
tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgement than for
that town."
Titles For Latest
English LCCC Lebanese & Lebanese Related News & Editorials published on 21-22
June/2026
Celebrating Fathers Day: A Biblical Perspective on Duty, Honor, and
Sacrifice/Elias Bejjani/June 21/2026
Video Link/Israeli PM Netanyahu speaks at the JNS International Policy Summit
Netanyahu: I insist on our forces remaining in southern Lebanon and I will not
allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons
Israel Lifts All War-Related Restrictions in the North
Southern Lebanon Experiences First Hours of 'Cautious Calm' / Katz: Israeli Army
Has Freedom of Action if Threatened
Hezbollah banners on the airport road: "Thank you, Iran"
Trump frustrated with Israel's actions against Hezbollah: I'm considering
handing the file over to Syria
Al-Sharaa: Syria Does Not Intend to Engage in Any Escalation with Lebanon
Cautious Calm on the Southern Front... Netanyahu and Katz: We Will Remain in the
Security Zone
Nearly a Million Displaced Lebanese Remain Outside Their Homes... Their Return
Hindered by Destruction, Insecurity, and Lack of Services
This is Israel's "knot" in Lebanon: A region that worries Tel Aviv
Iranian Official: Lebanon File a Priority in Swiss Talks with Washington
Berri: Constant Communication with Aoun and Salam; We Adhere to Priorities
Despite Differences
Hezbollah's Christian Relations Official Responds to Vance: His Statements Are
Incendiary and Sectarian
Naim Qassem Rejects Israeli Security Zone in Southern Lebanon
Hezbollah Attacks Lebanese Negotiations with Israel… and Thanks Iran
Qassem: The Project to Topple Iran and the Resistance Has Ended
The Maronites and the Holy Eucharist/George Hayek/Facebook/June 21, 2026
The years I spent near you were few./George Younes/Facebook/June 21, 2026
Bishop Aoudi/A Christian father is not measured by what he provides for his
children's material needs, but by the faith and trust in God he instills in
them.
Titles For The Latest English LCCC Miscellaneous Reports
And News published on 21-22 June/2026
Trump: I will destroy Iran if they don't reach an agreement... and we may
seize the Strait of Hormuz
US President: "If Iran doesn't stop its proxies in Lebanon, we will strike them
hard again"
In protest against Trump's threats, US-Iranian talks in Switzerland temporarily
halted... Iranian negotiating team left the venue.
Al Arabiya Correspondent: Qatari-Pakistani Efforts to Bring Iranian Delegation
Back to Negotiations... Diplomat: Iranian Delegation "Still Engaged" in Talks
with Washington
JD Vance: We are meeting directly with the Iranians for the first time to
resolve outstanding issues
Pakistani Foreign Minister Reveals to Al Arabiya the Atmosphere of US-Iran
Negotiations / Ishaq Dar: We Are Confident Washington and Tehran Will Reach a
Final Agreement
Following Trump's threats... Qalibaf: Washington should be wary, our armed
forces are ready to respond... Trump threatened to destroy Iran and seize
control of the Strait of Hormuz
Trump: I will destroy Iran if they don't reach an agreement... and we may
control the Strait of Hormuz.
US President: "If Iran doesn't stop its proxies in Lebanon, we will strike them
hard again."
Details of the Iranian negotiating team's entry into the meeting hall... The
Iranian negotiating team refused to take a joint photo with the American
delegation.
Republican Senator Reveals Trump's Plan if Negotiations Fail... Lindsey Graham
Spent Four and a Half Hours with the US President
Saudi Arabia included in a four-way meeting in Cairo to discuss efforts to
de-escalate tensions in the region... and addressed the Israeli military
escalation against Lebanon.
Saudi-Egyptian-Pakistani-Turkish Statement Supporting US-Iranian Negotiations
Qatar: Explosion at Ras Laffan Plant, Several Injured
Titles For The
Latest English LCCC analysis & editorials from miscellaneous sources published
on 21-22 June/2026
Trump's Iran 'Deal'/Pierre Rehov/Gatestone Institute/June 21, 2026
The Middle East between the “Obama Agreement” and the “Trump Agreement”/Abdullah
bin Bajad Al-Otaibi/Asharq Al-Awsat/June 21, 2026
On the Contents of the US-Iranian Memorandum of Understanding/Former Judge and
Lawyer François Daher / Facebook / June 21, 2026
Hundreds of casualties and injuries: the price of a seat for the "Shia duo" at a
"secondary table" outside all tracks!/Tony Jabran/Al-Markazia/June 21, 2026
From the corpses of Baroque victims to its entire population, who are
monotheists and Christians. The wounds remain open because people don't talk
about them/Saud Abu Shibl/Facebook/June 21, 2026
Enriching and Strengthening Hezbollah/Hazem Saghieh/Asharq Al-Awsat/June 21,
2026
Latest English LCCC
Lebanese & Lebanese Related News & Editorials published on 21-22 June/2026
Celebrating Fathers Day: A Biblical
Perspective on Duty, Honor, and Sacrifice
Elias Bejjani/June 21/2026
https://eliasbejjaninews.com/2026/06/130787/
Today, 21 June/2026 Canada celebrates The Fathers' Day. As we gather to
celebrate the importat family event, we are reminded of the pivotal role fathers
play in our lives. Fathers, both in their presence and sacrifices, mirror the
divine fatherhood of God Himself. This day is not merely about showering our
fathers with gifts and words of appreciation but also about reflecting on our
duties and obligations towards them, as underscored by biblical teachings.
The Bible provides profound insights into the importance of honoring our
fathers. Ephesians 6:2-3 commands, "Honor your father and mother"—which is the
first commandment with a promise—"so that it may go well with you and that you
may enjoy long life on the earth." This directive is clear: honoring our fathers
is not just a noble act but a divine injunction that brings blessings.
Furthermore, Proverbs 23:22 instructs us, "Listen to your father, who gave you
life, and do not despise your mother when she is old." These verses highlight
that respect and obedience to our fathers are lifelong duties. They underscore
the need to appreciate the wisdom and experience that our fathers impart,
recognizing their efforts and sacrifices in nurturing us.
Fathers, in many ways, emulate God the Father, who is described in Psalm 103:13:
"As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those
who fear him." Just as God’s compassion and care are boundless, so too are the
efforts of our earthly fathers. They toil and labor, often in silence, to
provide for us, ensuring our well-being and success.
In honoring our fathers, we acknowledge the countless sacrifices they have made.
From working long hours to provide for the family to making tough decisions for
our betterment, fathers constantly put their children's needs before their own.
This dedication is aptly captured in the Lebanese saying, "No one is dear to my
heart more than my son, but the son of my son." It speaks to the enduring love
and legacy that fathers build, emphasizing the generational impact of their
devotion.
However, it is disheartening to see that not all children recognize or
reciprocate this dedication. Some neglect their fathers, disregarding their
wisdom and contributions. To such individuals, the biblical admonition in
Proverbs 30:17 serves as a stern reminder: "The eye that mocks a father and
scorns a mother will be pecked out by the ravens of the valley, will be eaten by
the vultures." This vivid imagery warns of the severe consequences of disrespect
and neglect towards one’s parents.
As we celebrate Fathers' Day, let us remember that honoring our fathers is not
limited to a single day of festivities. It is an ongoing commitment to show
respect, provide care, and express gratitude for all they do. Let us strive to
embody the principles of the Bible, ensuring that our fathers feel valued and
appreciated every day of their lives.
In conclusion, Fathers' Day is a powerful reminder of the immense love and
sacrifices our fathers have made for us. By honoring them, we not only fulfill
our biblical duties but also strengthen the bonds of family and faith. Let us
cherish our fathers, acknowledging their vital role in our lives and upholding
the respect and honor they rightfully deserve.
Video Link/Israeli PM Netanyahu speaks at the JNS International
Policy Summit
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bObvua3DLc4&t=189s
Netanyahu: I insist on our forces remaining in southern Lebanon
and I will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons
Jerusalem (AFP) / June 21, 2026 (Translated by
Google from Arabic)
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated on Sunday that Israeli
forces will remain in southern Lebanon "as long as necessary," vowing to prevent
Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Netanyahu's office quoted him as saying
during a memorial service on Sunday, "We will remain in the security zone in
southern Lebanon as long as necessary to protect our dear residents in the north
and all the citizens of Israel," emphasizing that "nothing will change this
commitment." He added, "As for Iran, whatever political developments may occur,
I will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons... This will not happen as long
as I am Prime Minister of Israel." Meanwhile, Israeli Broadcasting Corporation
confirmed that the administration of US President Donald Trump is pushing for
the redeployment of the Israeli army behind the Green Line in southern Lebanon.
A “fragile ceasefire” – Earlier, Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir stated that
the declared ceasefire in Lebanon was “fragile” and that the army was
“continuing to fight” there. Speaking during a visit to Israeli forces in
southern Lebanon, Zamir said, “We are continuing to fight. Our objective remains
clear: to defend the towns in northern Israel and Israeli civilians. This is the
objective that guides all our efforts, and the operations in the Ali Taher and
Beaufort areas are also aimed at serving this objective.” The Chief of Staff
considered the Lebanese Hezbollah to be facing “a very difficult situation,”
saying, “Hezbollah has suffered a severe and significant blow, and we are
committed to remaining ready to continue operating and prevent it from
rebuilding its capabilities… Hezbollah is in a very difficult situation.” Zamir
added, “The declared ceasefire is fragile, and we must maintain a high level of
readiness for the possibility of renewed fighting, to eliminate threats, and to
transition quickly to new operations if necessary.”
Israel Lifts All War-Related Restrictions in the North
Tel Aviv: Asharq Al-Awsat/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
Israel announced today (Sunday) the lifting of all restrictions imposed on its
northern border areas during the war with Hezbollah in Lebanon, following a lull
in fighting in recent days. The Israeli army stated, "Starting at 6:00 AM on
Monday, June 22, 2026 (3:00 AM GMT), all restrictions in the frontline area will
be lifted," adding that border communities "will return to a full level of
activity, without any restrictions, instead of a partial level of activity."
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated today that the Israeli
forces will remain in southern Lebanon "as long as necessary," vowing to prevent
Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Netanyahu's office quoted him as saying
during a memorial service: "We will remain in the security zone in southern
Lebanon as long as necessary to protect our dear residents in the north and all
the citizens of Israel," emphasizing that "nothing will change this commitment."
He added: "As for Iran, whatever political developments may occur, I will not
allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons. This will not happen as long as I am
Prime Minister of Israel." Defense Minister Yisrael Katz confirmed earlier today
that Israeli forces will face no restrictions regarding "removing threats" in
southern Lebanon and will remain in the "security zone" they established after
their sweeping advance during the war with Hezbollah. Katz stated: "There have
never been, and there are currently no, restrictions on IDF soldiers inside
Lebanon preventing them from removing threats... As Prime Minister Benjamin
Netanyahu and I have made clear, Israel will not withdraw from the security zone
in Lebanon." Iran warned today that negotiations with the United States to reach
a final agreement to end the war in the Middle East remain contingent on Israel
halting its attacks in Lebanon, as stipulated in the memorandum of understanding
between Washington and Tehran.
Southern Lebanon Experiences First Hours of 'Cautious Calm' /
Katz: Israeli Army Has Freedom of Action if Threatened
Beirut/Asharq Al-Awsat/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
A cautious calm prevailed in southern Lebanon hours after the ceasefire came
into effect, while a state of anticipation continued to grip residents and
displaced persons who were watching to see if the truce would hold this time
after previous attempts ended in a rapid collapse and a return to clashes. This
came as Israeli officials announced that the army had received orders from the
political echelon to restrict its military operations in southern Lebanon, while
continuing to operate 'defensively.' Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz said
on Sunday that Israeli soldiers have freedom of action without restrictions to
eliminate any threats they face in Lebanon, and that the forces will remain
stationed in the positions designated within the 'security zone.' Israeli Chief
of Staff Eyal Zamir described the ceasefire in Lebanon as "fragile," stating,
"The forces must maintain a high level of readiness to resume combat
operations." In Tyre, life gradually returned to the waterfront, markets, and
main streets, with residents going to the beach and some shops reopening.
Meanwhile, Israeli drones continued to fly over Lebanese airspace, particularly
over Beirut and the south. Dozens of families returned to the districts of Tyre
and Bint Jbeil in the early morning, especially to towns relatively far from the
immediate front lines. However, this return remained limited, as many preferred
to wait and see if the ceasefire would hold and not collapse within the first
few hours or days. This caution stems from past experiences in the south, where
understandings or temporary truces have repeatedly collapsed with renewed
shelling and clashes. Therefore, a large number of displaced people preferred to
remain in their places of displacement or to postpone making a final decision on
returning, especially given the continued reports of violations on the ground
and the continued presence of Israeli forces in several locations within
southern Lebanon. In Nabatieh and the border villages that witnessed the
fiercest military operations during the final days of the war, the return of
residents was almost nonexistent, whether due to security concerns or the
extensive damage inflicted on homes, infrastructure, roads, and basic services.
Calls from municipalities and the Lebanese army to postpone the return movement
for 72 hours, pending the stabilization of the security situation and the
completion of road clearing operations and the removal of unexploded ordnance
and remnants of airstrikes, also contributed to the slowdown. ...Violations and
Security Risks
Despite the relative calm, Israeli violations were not absent from the scene. An
Israeli drone dropped two stun grenades, the first targeting the Kfar Tebnit
roundabout and the second the vicinity of Farah Amusement Park in Nabatieh al-Fawqa,
according to the National News Agency. Meanwhile, Lebanese army units continued
their operations to remove war debris. The army command announced the
dismantling of unexploded aerial bombs left over from Israeli airstrikes in the
towns of Tibnin, Khirbet Selm, Majdal Selm, Dbeibine, and Blat, and their
transfer to safe locations for disposal. Military units also worked to reopen
several main and secondary roads, reiterating their call for residents to adhere
to army directives and to postpone their return to border villages for their own
safety. Security sources reported that Israeli forces remain stationed in
several locations and towns within the Nabatieh district, raising concerns among
residents and delaying the widespread return to border areas, which have
witnessed a significant Israeli military escalation in recent days. Meanwhile,
Hezbollah announced its commitment to the ceasefire despite Israeli violations,
noting a new Israeli attempt to infiltrate the Ali Taher Heights. The Israeli
army claims these heights contain strategic Hezbollah offensive systems,
including tunnels and large weapons depots. Hezbollah maintains that Ali Taher
remains outside Israeli control despite repeated attempts to advance towards it
during the war.
Visit of the Army Commander
Lebanese Army Commander General Rudolph Heikel inspected operational units
deployed in the areas of Nabatieh, Nabatieh al-Fawqa, Kfar Remman, Shoukin,
Zrarieh, and the vicinity of Kfar Tebnit. He reviewed the operational situation,
the units' missions, and the challenges they face amidst ongoing Israeli attacks
and violations. Heikel emphasized "the importance of the measures taken to
ensure the safety of citizens in areas subjected to Israeli attacks," stressing
"the vital role of the army in various Lebanese regions, particularly in the
south," and noting that "the military institution will remain a source of trust
for the Lebanese people."
New Israeli Restrictions
In Israel, the Israeli Army Radio reported a "significant change" in military
operations policy on the Lebanese front. It indicated that new instructions had
been issued to the Northern Command imposing broad restrictions on the use of
force and tightening the conditions for approving military strikes. According to
the radio station, operations previously authorized at the field commander level
now require the approval of the Chief of Staff or even the political echelon,
effectively reducing the scope of Israeli military action in southern Lebanon
compared to previous months. In contrast, Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz
affirmed that the army would continue to eliminate what he described as threats
within Lebanese territory, declaring that Israel would not withdraw from the
"security zone" it established during the war. He stated that Israeli forces
face no restrictions preventing them from acting against what they consider
threats to their security.
Hezbollah banners on the airport road: "Thank you, Iran"
Al-Markazia/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
Images circulated on social media showing banners stretching along the road from
Beirut International Airport southward, bearing images of former Iranian Supreme
Leader Ali Khamenei and his son Mojtaba, along with the phrase "Thank you,
Iran."
Trump frustrated with Israel's actions against Hezbollah:
I'm considering handing the file over to Syria
Al-Markazia/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
Regarding the Lebanese situation and Hezbollah's role in the region, US
President Donald Trump announced that he is close to "handing over the Hezbollah
file to Syria," granting Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa a greater role in
dealing with this issue. This move reflects a shift in Washington's approach to
the rapidly evolving developments in the Levant. Trump stated that he is nearing
a decision to entrust this file to Damascus, believing that Syrian President
Ahmed al-Sharaa possesses the ability to play an influential role in this
regard. He did not provide further details about the mechanism to be adopted or
the limits of the powers that could be granted to the Syrian side. In a related
context, Trump addressed a direct message to Iran, calling on it to intervene
immediately to prevent Hezbollah from inciting further tensions in Lebanon. He
added that Tehran must use its influence to restrain the party and halt any
actions that could destabilize Lebanon internally or push the situation toward
further escalation.
Al-Sharaa: Syria Does Not Intend to Engage in Any
Escalation with Lebanon
Al-Markazia/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa stated that “if dialogue with Hezbollah serves
Lebanon’s interests and secures Syria’s interests, then why not?” He emphasized
that Syria does not intend to engage in any escalation with Lebanon. In an
exclusive interview with Al-Mashhad TV, al-Sharaa added that “the beginning of
Syrian-Lebanese relations always necessitates invoking the previous regime’s
approach to relations between the two countries,” considering this “a grave
mistake,” because the Syrian people also suffered under the previous regime, as
did the Lebanese people. The Syrian president pointed out that “the current
circumstances in the region are going through a sensitive phase,” explaining
that “the change of the previous regime in Syria presented a very positive and
significant opportunity for the region, and most countries in the region
benefited from this change.” He asserted that some Lebanese parties are still
prisoners of the past and are dealing with the current reality based on the
parameters of the previous era, noting that “Lebanon is currently facing a very
serious war.” Regarding a Lebanese-Israeli agreement, al-Sharaa stated that
objective conditions for peace must be met for genuine peace to occur, adding,
“We are pushing for a calm and secure region, free from any kind of war.” He
continued, “But now that Lebanon has gone to Washington and signed a peace
agreement there, and then that same night a missile is launched from Lebanon and
targets Israeli territory, for example, what does peace mean? Or the opposite
happens. What does that peace mean? Therefore, there must be preparatory stages
before this, because any agreement you sign must be able to fulfill its
obligations.” Regarding the possibility of engaging with Hezbollah, Syrian
President Ahmed al-Sharaa stated, “If this serves Lebanon’s interests and
secures Syrian interests, why not?” He added, “We have a deep wound. Nearly 14
years of displacement and migration, and Hezbollah has done significant things
inside… They brought in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard… and they did what you
all saw live on television during those 14 years.” Al-Sharaa continued: “I
believe in dialogue, even with opposing parties. Dialogue must continue, even
during war, conflict, and clashes, because any closure of any avenues for
dialogue and discussion leads to war. The compass should always be dialogue
first. In a situation like Lebanon’s, we shouldn’t consider anything other than
dialogue. We have a deep problem with Hezbollah, but we don’t want all of
Lebanon to perish. We want to resolve the Hezbollah issue while Lebanon
survives.” He pointed to the extensive destruction in southern Lebanon and the
southern suburbs of Beirut, in addition to the massive internal displacement
within Lebanon, which, according to Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, has
reached approximately 1.4 million displaced persons. He considered this to have
a significant and negative impact on the Syrian situation. President al-Sharaa
also pointed to the presence of Hezbollah forces along the Syrian-Lebanese
border, noting that the Lebanese crisis is significant, that there is a kind of
impasse in political solutions, and that some of the proposed solutions have not
been taken seriously internationally. Al-Sharaa emphasized that the Syrian
approach is completely different, explaining that “contacts have taken place
between Syria and the United States since the beginning of their relationship,”
and that “the Lebanese situation has been discussed more than once, including
during his conversation with US President Donald Trump.”
He stressed that the Syrian position is based on the premise that the solution
in Lebanon will not be achieved through continuous bombing or displacement, but
rather through first stopping the war and then adopting a comprehensive set of
solutions that include economic, political, and social measures, and restoring
economic ties and vital trade links between Syria and Lebanon. The Syrian
president explained that this is accompanied by security measures to address
Syrian and Lebanese concerns, as well as some Israeli concerns, clarifying that
“stopping what is happening requires creative solutions, not traditional ones.”
Al-Sharaa said that Lebanon is currently suffering from a decline in
international attention, after having been viewed primarily through an economic,
banking, and human lens, while today it has become primarily a security issue.
He noted that “it is also viewed in some circles as part of the Iranian issue,
which he described as very dangerous.” Al-Sharaa indicated that Syria has
presented a different approach to the United States, French President Emmanuel
Macron, and regional countries, aiming to find an opportunity to stop the war
and move towards other solutions that guarantee the reassurance of all
components of Lebanese society, with security guarantees for Syria. He
emphasized that any proposal must be made through the Lebanese state and its
institutions, noting that what President Trump meant reflects his unease with
what is happening in Lebanon and his desire to stop the war, while also
indicating the possibility of a Syrian role in this process through Lebanese
institutions. He stressed that Syrian policy has been based for about a year and
a half on reconstruction, development, the economy, and restoring Syria’s
regional and international position, noting that seeking help from other
countries to solve crises “is not a flaw.”
He stated that Syria relied on its relations with countries such as Saudi
Arabia, Turkey, the UAE, Qatar, and Europe to reach solutions for a number of
its issues, considering that “the situation in Lebanon today requires a similar
approach based on cooperation.” He emphasized that the Syrian role should be
positive and supportive of the Lebanese state and its institutions, not a
repetition of the previous period of tutelage, but rather one of supporting
stability and rebuilding Lebanese institutions. He pointed out that the solution
must involve strengthening ties between Lebanese forces, including Hezbollah, to
reach a secure solution that reassures everyone, warning that piecemeal
solutions could lead to further complications. He added that Lebanon needs to
reassure its various components, noting the necessity of ensuring that the Shia
community feels safe and secure, as well as finding a place for Hezbollah within
the Lebanese state that avoids zero-sum solutions. He stressed that Lebanon’s
interests must supersede all other interests, and that “strategic objectives
must focus on Lebanon first,” emphasizing that any party possessing the power to
decide on war and peace outside the framework of the state makes it difficult to
build a stable state. He called for “seeking a third option instead of the
dilemma of civil war or war with Israel.” He explained that Syria extends a hand
to Lebanon daily, and that its role can be positive if the Lebanese reach an
agreement, given the direct link between the security of the two countries. He
emphasized that Syria extends a hand to Lebanon daily, and that its role can be
positive if the Lebanese reach an agreement, given the direct link between the
security of the two countries. He also affirmed that Syria considers Lebanon's
stability part of its own stability, and that any instability in Lebanon
directly impacts the Syrian interior, and vice versa. He pointed to provisions
in the Taif Agreement that confirm this interdependence, adding: "Geography
sometimes imposes political necessities, and solutions must stem from points of
convergence, not points of divergence. Everyone agrees on ending the war and on
economic cooperation." Al-Shara'a noted the importance of building gradual
relations based on consensus, warning against resorting to sudden or
comprehensive solutions without a gradual approach, as this could cause
additional complications. He said that Syria's path toward economic development
is clear, that it is working on reconstruction and healing its wounds, and that
it has overcome difficult phases in the recent past. He concluded by emphasizing
that Syria does not intend to engage in any escalation with Lebanon, and that
its goal is a safe solution that serves both countries, preserves stability and
coexistence, and opens new channels of cooperation, especially in the economic
and developmental fields.
Cautious
Calm on the Southern Front... Netanyahu and Katz: We Will Remain in the Security
Zone
Al-Markazia/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
A cautious calm prevails on most of Lebanon's fronts as negotiations in
Switzerland draw near. No Israeli airstrikes or attacks have been recorded in
Lebanon, and Hezbollah has not carried out any attacks since yesterday evening.
Israeli Army Radio reported a significant change in military operations policy,
with a near-complete restriction of shelling in southern Lebanon. Meanwhile, the
Health Emergency Operations Center of the Ministry of Public Health issued a
statement announcing that Israeli airstrikes on the town of Sahmar in the
Western Bekaa resulted in five deaths, including a child, a woman, and two
elderly people, as well as one injury. The airstrike on Rashidieh, in the Tyre
district, also resulted in the deaths of two Palestinians. Additionally, Carlos
Roger Abdel Malek, a young man from the Jdeideh area of Beirut, was killed in
an Israeli drone strike that targeted him today while he was riding a motorcycle
in the town of Zibdine. His funeral will be held tomorrow, Sunday, at the
Ghobeiri cemetery. The young man, Raef Salman Issa, was killed in an Israeli
drone strike that targeted him while he was riding a motorcycle in his hometown
of Kfarsir. The Ministry of Health: The Health Emergency Operations Center of
the Ministry of Public Health announced in a statement that the cumulative death
toll from the aggression from March 2nd to June 21st is as follows: 4,106
martyrs and 12,153 wounded. Israel: For its part, Israeli radio announced the
deaths of six soldiers, including a senior officer, and the wounding of more
than 20 in Hezbollah attacks in Lebanon since last Thursday. Netanyahu: In a
related context, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed that Israel
will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon as long as necessary to
protect the residents of the north. Netanyahu stressed in a statement that
Israel will not allow Iran to possess nuclear weapons, regardless of political
developments. For his part, Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz confirmed that
the Israeli army is not restricted in its operations inside Lebanon, emphasizing
that Israeli forces will continue to work to eliminate what he described as
"threats" wherever they exist. Katz: Katz asserted that the ceasefire announced
yesterday imposes no restrictions on the movements of the Israeli army,
explaining that its forces will remain in all the positions they occupy within
what Israel calls the “security zone,” intended to protect the northern
settlements. He added that Israel will not withdraw from the security zone in
southern Lebanon, emphasizing the continued presence of the Israeli army there
despite the ceasefire. In a related context, Israeli media outlets reported that
the Walla! website stated: “The Israeli army estimates that Hezbollah has
re-established an intelligence-gathering and surveillance system opposite the
Yellow Line in southern Lebanon.” Zamir: Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir said
on Sunday that the declared ceasefire in Lebanon is “fragile” and that the army
“continues to fight” there. Speaking in southern Lebanon, Zamir said: “We
continue to fight. Our objective remains clear: to defend the towns in northern
Israel and Israeli civilians. This is the objective that guides all our efforts,
and the operations in the Ali Taher and Beaufort areas are also aimed at serving
this objective.” The Chief of Staff stated that the Lebanese Hezbollah is facing
a “very difficult situation,” during his inspection of Israeli forces in
southern Lebanon.
Nearly a Million Displaced Lebanese Remain Outside Their Homes...
Their Return Hindered by Destruction, Insecurity, and Lack of Services
Beirut: Sobhi Amhaz/Asharq Al-Awsat/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from
Arabic)
The Israeli war on Lebanon imposed one of the largest waves of internal
displacement in its modern history, forcing more than a million people to leave
their homes during the height of military operations and pushing hundreds of
thousands of families to seek refuge in various Lebanese regions. Despite the
decline in the pace of military operations and the beginning of a gradual return
to some southern villages and towns, the repercussions of the crisis remain
strongly felt, with hundreds of thousands of Lebanese still displaced from their
original areas and hundreds of shelters continuing to operate to accommodate
those affected.
Official Figures
Sources at the Ministry of Social Affairs revealed to Asharq Al-Awsat that “the
total number of Lebanese displaced persons since the outbreak of the war until
before the ceasefire (last Monday) reached approximately 963,497,” noting that
“the peak was recorded in mid-April 2026 when the number of displaced persons
exceeded 1.2 million, reaching 1,208,869.” They added that “the current number
of displaced persons is still close to 963,000, equivalent to about 16 percent
of Lebanon’s total population,” despite the return of some displaced persons to
their areas of origin as the intensity of military operations decreased. The
sources explained that the displaced persons are currently distributed across 26
districts and 865 real estate zones and towns in various Lebanese regions, but
the largest portion of them are concentrated in a limited number of districts.
She noted that Beirut is hosting 233,939 displaced persons, representing 24.3
percent of the total displaced population, followed by Aley with 168,389, Chouf
with 166,932, Sidon with 135,340, and Baabda with 39,351.
The displaced are also distributed across other districts, including Jbeil with
28,563, Metn with 27,330, Tyre with 26,311, Akkar with 20,904, Zahle with
18,318, Keserwan with 16,653, Minieh-Dinnieh with 14,874, Jezzine with 10,680,
and Baalbek with 10,451. The total number of displaced persons in the remaining
districts combined is 56,462. Sources confirmed that “the first five
districts—Beirut, Aley, Chouf, Sidon, and Baabda—alone host approximately 76
percent of the total displaced population,” reflecting the immense social and
service-related strain these areas have borne since the beginning of the crisis.
Regarding the housing situation of the displaced, the sources indicated that
about 14 percent reside in collective shelters, totaling approximately 135,669
individuals distributed across 636 shelters that continue to receive displaced
persons to this day. In contrast, about 55 percent of the displaced live in
rented accommodations, while 26 percent live with host families or under various
hosting arrangements. Around 3 percent reside in second homes, and approximately
2 percent live in precarious or unsafe housing conditions. The sources revealed
that “the maximum number of collective shelters operated during the crisis
reached 686,” before the number gradually declined as conditions improved in
some areas and some residents began returning to their towns.
140,000 Returnees
Regarding the return to their original areas, sources confirmed that the
majority of citizens have returned to five main districts: Baalbek, which
recorded 49,241 returnees; Baabda, with 41,840; Sidon, with 20,551; Aley, with
13,500; and Nabatieh, with 10,030.
They added that "these five districts collectively attract about 97 percent of
the total number of returnees to their original areas," making them the primary
destination for the return movement recorded so far. The sources pointed to a
clear disparity in return rates among Lebanese regions; the districts of
Baalbek, Baabda, Sidon, Aley, and Nabatieh recorded the highest numbers of
returnees, while returns remained very limited in several other areas. Sources
at the Ministry of Social Affairs attributed the slow pace of returns to a
number of overlapping factors, primarily the continued security concerns of
residents, the renewal of evacuation orders in some areas, and the extensive
damage inflicted on homes, infrastructure, and basic services. She also pointed
out that limited job opportunities, the difficulty of restoring income sources,
and access to some affected areas remain major obstacles to the return of a
large number of families to their original towns and villages. This compels many
to remain in displacement camps, awaiting improved security and living
conditions. Sources believe these factors confirm that the displacement crisis
in Lebanon persists despite the decline in military operations, and that
addressing its humanitarian and social repercussions will remain among the most
significant challenges facing the state in the coming period, particularly in
areas that suffered extensive destruction or still lack the minimum services and
infrastructure necessary to receive returnees.
This is Israel's "knot" in Lebanon: A region that worries Tel
Aviv
Al-Markazia/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
Despite the ceasefire agreement in southern Lebanon coming into effect, field
and security developments continue to cast a shadow over the border scene, amid
ongoing limited clashes and an exchange of military messages between the
concerned parties. In this context, the Ali al-Taher and Kfar Tebnit heights
stand out as one of the most sensitive areas on the southern front, given their
military and logistical importance in any future security or field equation. The
Emirati website "Eram News" published a new report indicating that coordination
between Washington and Tel Aviv remains at a high level, despite differences in
the two sides' approaches to managing the current phase. The report quoted
informed American sources as saying that the core of the conflict is no longer
related to the daily violations of the ceasefire, but rather revolves around
preventing Hezbollah from exploiting the truce to rebuild its military
capabilities and reorganize its logistical infrastructure. According to sources,
the Ali al-Taher Heights have become a military priority for Israel due to their
pivotal role in linking southern Lebanon and the Western Bekaa Valley, granting
them strategic value that extends beyond their geographical borders. The sources
explained that Israel is approaching this axis with extreme caution following
recent ambushes that resulted in the death of a high-ranking Israeli officer and
injuries to several soldiers. This has led Israel to adopt a gradual advance
strategy to avoid depleting its forces in geographically complex areas. The
sources believe the real disagreement revolves around the interpretation of a
ceasefire. Hezbollah and Iran seek to present any truce as a demonstration of
resilience and a means of achieving political gains, while Israel views any
agreement that does not prevent Hezbollah from rebuilding its military
capabilities as a strategic failure, even if the level of confrontations
decreases. They added that the battle is no longer merely a test of military
strength but has transformed into a political and strategic confrontation
concerning the shape of the next phase and the nature of the resulting power
balances. In the same vein, former commander of the Lebanese Army's strike
force, Tony Abu Samra, asserted that there is a clear divergence between the
American and Israeli visions regarding how to guarantee security in southern
Lebanon.
Abu Samra explained to Eram News that Israel continues to rely on direct
military means to secure its northern border, while Washington leans toward a
broader approach based on employing political pressure, sanctions, and regional
understandings, including negotiations with Iran, to limit Hezbollah's
influence. He added that both sides, despite their differing methods, share a
common goal: preventing the party from regaining its military strength and
maintaining a manageable level of escalation without sliding into a full-blown
war. He pointed out that the importance of the Ali Taher Heights stems from its
role as an advanced logistical base within Hezbollah's deployment network, as
well as its function in connecting supply lines between the Western Bekaa Valley
and southern Lebanon. He emphasized that controlling these heights would
constitute a significant blow to the party's military and logistical
infrastructure, and would limit its ability to transport equipment and fighters
and provide launching platforms toward sensitive areas inside Israel,
particularly the Galilee Panhandle. The report concluded by noting that the
current truce appears more like a testing phase than a stable settlement, as
Hezbollah's success in using it to rebuild its capabilities will keep the
agreement fragile and liable to collapse at any moment. Meanwhile, Israel
believes that reducing the party's influence and disrupting its logistical
networks, particularly in the Ali Taher axis, constitutes the true measure of
the truce's success and its transformation from a temporary tactical measure
into a more sustainable security arrangement.
Iranian Official: Lebanon File a Priority in Swiss Talks with
Washington
Al-Markazia/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from
Arabic)
An Iranian official told CNN that ending the conflict in Lebanon is "the most
important item on the agenda of the Iranian delegation" in Switzerland for talks
with the United States. The official explained that these talks are not part of
the formal negotiations stipulated in the Memorandum of Understanding signed
between the United States and Iran, due to the non-fulfillment of several
clauses in the agreement. He added that the most prominent of these clauses is
the first clause of the agreement, which stipulates ending the war in Lebanon,
noting that the failure to implement this condition has prevented the transition
to formal negotiations between the two sides. For his
part, a diplomat participating in the US-Iranian talks in Switzerland told CBS
News that an emergency session to discuss the conflict between Israel and
Hezbollah was added to the agenda of the first day of the peace talks in
Switzerland.
A New Round of Negotiations
A new round of negotiations between the United States and Iran begins today,
Sunday, in Switzerland, aimed at ending the conflict in the Middle East, based
on the memorandum of understanding signed between the two sides. This follows
the arrival of US Vice President J.D. Vance in the host country, just hours
after the arrival of the Iranian negotiators. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz
Sharif also arrived at the venue for the US-Iran negotiations in Burgenstock.
Earlier, Pakistani media reported that Army Chief Asim Munir had also arrived in
Switzerland on Sunday morning. The negotiations were originally scheduled to
begin on Friday in Switzerland, but were postponed at the last minute after
Israel escalated its attacks in Lebanon following the killing of four soldiers,
including an officer, by Hezbollah fire.
Hormuz, Lebanon, and the Blockade
Washington then reached an agreement to renew the ceasefire there, a condition
of its initial agreement with Iran. However, Israeli forces clashed again with
Hezbollah fighters on Saturday, with both sides accusing each other of violating
the truce. The Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters, the central operations room of the
Iranian armed forces, announced in a statement the closure of the Strait of
Hormuz to maritime traffic "due to the United States' blatant violation of its
commitments and in response to Israel's continued and ongoing violations of the
ceasefire in southern Lebanon," according to the statement. US President Donald
Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had signed a memorandum of
understanding remotely on Wednesday night, which stipulated a ceasefire,
including on the Lebanese front, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and the
lifting of the US blockade on Iranian ports.
Berri: Constant Communication with Aoun and Salam; We Adhere to
Priorities Despite Differences
Al-Markazia/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri affirmed that he maintains constant
communication with President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, despite
their differing viewpoints. In a statement to Asharq Al-Awsat, he said, "I don't
believe there is a problem between us, as long as we are united by the need for
Israel's withdrawal from the South, the deployment of the Lebanese army, the
return of residents to their towns and villages, the release of prisoners, and
the development of a reconstruction plan for what was destroyed, with Arab and
international support, to enable them to remain on their land, to which they are
deeply attached. We appreciate the hospitality shown by all segments of Lebanese
society and political parties towards their displaced brothers and sisters who
were forced to leave their homes after the systematic Israeli destruction of
their villages." Berri's remarks came on the eve of the fifth round of
Lebanese-Israeli negotiations at the political and military levels, sponsored by
the US State Department in Washington. He expressed satisfaction with "the
efforts that led to the ceasefire, hoping it will hold. This depends on Israel's
willingness to abide by it, in return for Hezbollah's commitment, because it is
unacceptable to negotiate under the threat of fire." He revealed that Israel had
requested a ceasefire, which it had conveyed to the "mechanism" overseeing the
implementation of the cessation of hostilities. Berri said that "its agreement
to the ceasefire came as a result of American pressure exerted on it, after it
plunged the south into two bloody days that claimed the lives of dozens of
civilians, including members of the scouts (Islamic Message) and civil defense,
in addition to the elderly, women, and children." He emphasized that "Hezbollah
remains committed to the ceasefire, and that Israel is the one violating it. We
hope it will hold with American pressure, and we welcome any effort from any
party to pressure Israel to stop its war of aggression against
Lebanon."Experimental Zones… Berri paused to address his opposition to the
experimental zones, explaining his position by saying that agreeing on their
geographical boundaries could take two years, if not more, unlike adopting an
administrative division of the South based on districts, provided that the
gradual withdrawal from them begins concurrently with the deployment of the
Lebanese army. He pointed out that “we have no interest in wasting time that
allows Israel to continue its aggression, and the solution lies in adopting a
timetable for its withdrawal from each district in the South, in exchange for
the deployment of the army, because this remains the shortest path to liberating
it from occupation, instead of getting bogged down in defining the geographical
boundaries of each experimental zone, which keeps the South under Israeli fire
pressure, under the pretext of disagreement over dividing it into experimental
zones.” Berri emphasized that “Israel’s withdrawal from any district, for
example Tyre, must be accompanied by the deployment of the army, to pave the way
for the return of displaced persons to their villages, provided that the return
is limited to the residents of the district, and so on.” He said, "Israel's
withdrawal from it will coincide with its being free of weapons, and this is
what I pledged on behalf of Hezbollah, to evacuate the area south of the Litani
River, provided that Israel adheres to this." Berri stressed "the necessity of
adopting the administrative division of the south, taking into account those
areas that are still under occupation. The army command will then be left to set
a timetable for the phased deployment of military units in these areas, in
exchange for Israel's commitment to a similar timetable for its withdrawal, in a
way that allows displaced persons from this district or that to return to their
villages," in an indirect reference to limiting the return to its original
inhabitants.
Hezbollah's Christian Relations Official Responds to Vance: His
Statements Are Incendiary and Sectarian
Al-Markazia/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
Hezbollah's Christian Relations Official, Haj Muhammad al-Khansa, issued a
statement in response to US Vice President J.D. Vance's remarks: "We strongly
condemn the incendiary statements made by US Vice President J.D. Vance in
response to a question about the situation of Christians in Lebanon. These
statements reveal the racist and sectarian mentality governing the White House
and confirm the extent of American support for the Zionist project in Lebanon
and its complicity with the Israeli enemy in its ongoing aggression against the
Lebanese people and their land. Vance's claim of standing with Christians while
ignoring other Lebanese, and his attempt to hold Hezbollah responsible for their
exposure to bombardment and violence by the Israeli enemy under the pretext of
self-defense, is an attempt by proponents of Christian Zionism to give the
conflict hateful religious and sectarian dimensions and to sow discord and
division among the people of the same nation. It also constitutes a cheap
exploitation of the suffering of the Lebanese people and the daily killing,
bombing, and destruction of their homes and fields, without any distinction
between Muslim and Christian." Hezbollah has always been and will remain
committed to the model of coexistence in Lebanon and to its relationship with
all its diverse communities and sects. This Lebanese model stands in stark
contrast to the Zionist-American project in the region. Vance and his ilk should
know full well that all Lebanese, regardless of their sect, affiliation, or
region, have been victims of Israeli aggression and its brutal crimes. The
Israeli enemy bears ultimate responsibility for the tragedies afflicting Lebanon
and the peoples of the region, and is the primary and ultimate enemy of the
Lebanese people. Vance would have been better served by speaking out when
Zionist soldiers were desecrating Christian and Muslim holy sites and destroying
churches and mosques in Lebanon and Palestine. No matter how much the American
administration tries to justify the enemy's crimes, whitewash its image, or
cover up its violations, it cannot alter the undeniable truth: this enemy is
hateful and despises all who are different from it, and it has no regard
whatsoever for human, religious, or moral values.
Naim Qassem Rejects Israeli Security Zone in Southern Lebanon
Middle East/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem rejected on Sunday the existence of any
Israeli security zone in Lebanon, following Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin
Netanyahu's pledge that his forces would remain in the south of the country "as
long as necessary." Qassem stated in a televised address: "Remaining on Lebanese
soil is impossible. There are no Israeli security zones, and there is no Israeli
army that can control Lebanon from within Lebanon." He emphasized that "Israel
is an aggressor and must withdraw." Earlier that day, Netanyahu reiterated that
Israeli forces would remain in southern Lebanon "as long as necessary," vowing
to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Netanyahu's office quoted him as saying during a memorial service: "We will
remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon as long as necessary to protect
our dear northern residents and all citizens of Israel," stressing that "nothing
will change this commitment." He added: “As for Iran, no matter what political
developments occur, I will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons. This will
not happen as long as I am Prime Minister of Israel.”
Hezbollah Attacks Lebanese Negotiations with Israel… and Thanks Iran
Qassem: The Project to Topple Iran and the Resistance Has Ended
Beirut: Asharq Al-Awsat/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
Hezbollah reiterated its rejection of direct negotiations between Lebanon and
Israel, considering the negotiating track being pursued by the Lebanese state
under American auspices an infringement on Lebanese sovereignty and a departure
from national principles. This came as banners were raised on the road to Rafik
Hariri International Airport in Beirut bearing expressions of gratitude to Iran
for its role in the communications that preceded the ceasefire agreement. Along
the road leading south from Rafik Hariri International Airport, banners bearing
images of the late Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and his son Mojtaba,
along with the phrase "Thank you, Iran," were displayed, reflecting appreciation
for Iran's role in the negotiations that led to the ceasefire. This came as the
Lebanese Ministry of Health announced that the toll of the "Iran-backed" war
launched by Hezbollah had reached 4,106 dead and 12,153 wounded between March
2nd and June 21st. In a speech on Sunday, Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim
Qassem stated that a ceasefire that grants Israel "freedom of action" is
unacceptable. He added, "Let the Israelis and others know that remaining on
Lebanese soil is impossible. There are no security zones for Israel, and no area
within Lebanon can be controlled by the Israeli army. We have a national army
that is deployed, is responsible for preserving sovereignty, and is the one with
whom we cooperate." He asserted that “the project to eliminate Iran and the
resistance in the region has failed, and thus a new phase has begun, namely the
consequences of thwarting the American-Israeli project.” He pointed out that “a
ceasefire means a complete cessation of aggression by air, land, and sea, a halt
to demolition, and a cessation of the concentration of forces in the occupied
territories.” In a statement issued by its media relations department, Hezbollah
declared that “the rounds of direct negotiations to which the Lebanese
government delegation was led in Washington, to nod its head and rubber-stamp
the dictates of the American administration that usurp Lebanon’s sovereignty and
shift its political position to the camp of those reconciled with the Zionist
occupation and its illegitimate entity, offer absolutely no hope for any good to
come from these conciliatory negotiations, because their premise is flawed and
suspicious, and their objective is submission and surrender.” The statement
added that “Hezbollah once again condemns the approach of direct negotiations
with the Zionist enemy, its rounds, and their outcomes, and condemns their
obstructive function, which constitutes an obstacle to confronting the enemy’s
project, the efforts of the resistance on the ground, and the great sacrifices
of our great people, which the government could capitalize on and leverage with
these cards of strength to achieve a complete and unconditional withdrawal from
our Lebanese land.” Hezbollah also asserted that “continuing to participate in
direct negotiations is tantamount to implementing the order issued by the US
administration to the Lebanese authorities, who are unilaterally complying with
this decision, violating the National Pact, the Constitution, and the laws, and
responding to the efforts of America and Israel to increase the risks to
Lebanon, its stability, independence, and sovereignty.” Hezbollah’s statement
came hours after the ceasefire in southern Lebanon took effect and a new round
of negotiations began between the United States and Iran in Switzerland, aimed
at reaching a final agreement to end the war in the Middle East, based on the
memorandum of understanding signed by both parties. This occurred as Tehran
reiterated its demand for Israel to cease its attacks in Lebanon, and just
before a new round of direct Lebanese-Israeli negotiations was scheduled to take
place in Washington.
The Maronites and the Holy Eucharist
George Hayek/Facebook/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
Maronite spirituality is distinguished by a beautiful uniqueness in its
understanding of the relationship between the Eucharist and the land. The
Eucharist is made from the wheat of the earth and the wine of the vine. That is
to say, the earth itself offers its fruits for God to transform into His Body
and Blood. Therefore, the land is not merely property or a geographical space,
but rather a gift from God, a place of human sanctification, and the source of
the bread that becomes the Body of Christ. For this reason, the Maronite farmer
viewed tilling the land as an act with a spiritual dimension, because the field
produced wheat that would become an offering on the altar! The monk would
celebrate Mass in the morning and then go down to plant the vineyards, olive
groves, and wheat fields. This is why monasteries were found amidst the fields,
not within the cities. The monks see no contradiction between worship and work,
because for them, the land is an extension of the altar. This is why one of the
superiors general of the Maronite Order once said, "The altar begins in the
field." That is to say, the wheat that grows in the earth ends up as holy bread
on the altar. This justifies the Maronites' defense of the land throughout
history—a defense of freedom and faith, not merely a clinging to soil or
borders. In short, the land yields wheat, the wheat becomes an offering, and the
offering unites humanity with God, leading people to revere the land they live
on!
The years I spent near you were few.
George Younes/Facebook/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
When we were young, you emigrated for years to secure a better life for us. When
you were in Lebanon with us, you spent most of the day away from us, so we
lacked nothing. The war and the front lines keep me from you for years, even
though we're in the same country. The first stroke of the pickaxe to dig the
foundations of my house was yours. And the wood that still adorns my house with
its details and colors still speaks of the hands that crafted its beauty. In my
joy, joy danced on your brow, as if you owned the world. The peach and lemon
trees you planted, whose bounty we still harvest, still speak of your tenderness
every time I look at them. When my son, "Myuki," as you called him, was born—his
name was inscribed with yours—the world seemed too small for you. Building a
better future for my family brings me back to you after the twenty years I spent
abroad. The look of fear on your face and your anxiety when I surprised you with
a quick night visit while I was passing through on my way to Germany are still
etched in my memory, preventing me from ever doing it again, so afraid was I for
you that night. In your final days, you were upset with me for taking you to the
hospital because you were afraid and didn't want to leave us. After we returned,
we were by your side, but this remains God's will, for He is ultimately
responsible for our lives. Today, Dad, as I go to celebrate my daughter's
wedding, every moment reminds me of you and Mom, and I'm filled with longing for
the day you shared in my joy, as if it were yesterday. It's true, my dearest
ones, that I'm going to celebrate, but how much sweeter the joy would be if we
intertwined our wedding celebration with the joy in your eyes. On this day of
joy, all we ask of you is abundant love from your side, and we long to hear a
resounding ululation from heaven, synchronized with the beat of your voices. My
second father in heaven after Jesus, you will remain the sweetest and most
precious memory in my heart for the rest of my life. Happy Father's Day.
Bishop Aoudi/A Christian father is not measured by what he
provides for his children's material needs, but by the faith and trust in God he
instills in them.
Al Markazia/June 21/2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
Metropolitan Elias Audi, head of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Beirut and
its dependencies, presided over the Divine Liturgy at St. George's Cathedral.
After reading the Gospel, he delivered a sermon in which he said: “Man often
lives torn between faith and fear. He believes in God and acknowledges His care
and love, yet he carries many worries in his heart about his life, his future,
and his children. He prays and asks for God’s help, then returns to being
overwhelmed by anxiety as if everything depended on his own strength. Therefore,
everyone should ask themselves: Do I truly trust in God? Do I live my faith as a
living relationship with a Heavenly Father who loves and cares for me, or is my
faith confined to certain outward practices? Today’s Gospel, along with the
passage we heard from the Epistle of Paul to the Romans, answers this question.
Paul reveals to us the foundation of Christian trust, and the Lord Jesus shows
us how to live this trust in the details of our daily lives. The Apostle says:
‘Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God
through our Lord Jesus Christ.’ Man was separated from God and became estranged
from Him because of sin, but God did not abandon man in his alienation and ruin,
but rather reached out to him with His love. Therefore, the Apostle adds: ‘But
God demonstrates his own love for us in that, while we were still sinners, he
died Christ is for us. God did not wait for us to become righteous in order to
love us, nor did He ask us to be worthy of His love before He redeemed us.
Rather, He loved us first and gave His only Son for our salvation.
He added: “This truth is the foundation of the entire Christian life. Our faith
is not based on fear of God, but on trust in His love. We do not approach God as
slaves to a harsh master, but as children to a loving Father. Therefore, the
peace the Apostle speaks of is the fruit of reconciliation with God. Whoever
knows that God loves him even to the cross, and whoever understands that Christ
died for him to save him, does not view his life in the way someone who has not
known God does. In today’s Gospel, the Lord Jesus speaks of the healthy eye and
the evil eye, then moves on to talk about money, worries, and anxieties. He
says, ‘If your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if
your eye is unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness.’ He continues,
‘No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve God and money.’ At first glance,
these topics may seem different, but in reality, they are connected. The eye the
Lord spoke of is not the physical eye, but the eye of the heart. It is the way a
person looks at God, the world, and himself.” He continued, “If the eye is
healthy, that is, if the heart is steadfast in God and trusting…” Through His
love, humanity is filled with light and peace. But if the eye is darkened—that
is, if a person becomes enslaved by fear, greed, and excessive preoccupation
with earthly matters—darkness penetrates their depths, and their mind becomes
confused and troubled. Therefore, the Lord says, “No one can serve two masters…
You cannot serve both God and money.”
The problem is not money itself, but its place in the heart. If the heart
becomes more attached to fleeting things than to God, it loses its peace and
lives in anxiety. The Lord continues, “Do not worry about what you will eat or
drink.” He is not calling us to laziness or neglecting our responsibilities, but
to liberation from the anxiety that consumes the heart. The believer works hard,
but knows that their life is in God’s hands. They do what is required of them
and then entrust the rest to the care of the Heavenly Father. People today live
in a world where fears and pressures are increasing. Many are burdened with
worries about family, the future, work, the economy, illness, and old age. In
our modern world, people often suffocate under the weight of worries until they
lose their joy and peace. But Christ redirects them. Our focus is on the fact
that the God who loved us so much that He gave His only Son for us will also
care for our daily lives. He who reconciled us to Himself while we were sinners
will not abandon us now that we are His children. He said, “The Lord reaches the
pinnacle of His teaching when He says, ‘Seek first the kingdom of God and His
righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.’ The greatest problem
in human life is not a lack of resources, but a distorted view of priorities. We
often seek everything before God, and then we are surprised because our hearts
are troubled. Christ calls us to put God first. When the Kingdom is the primary
goal, everything else falls into place. When God becomes the center of our
lives, worries turn into prayer, fear into hope, and turmoil into peace.” He
added: “As our world celebrates Father’s Day today, this message takes on a
special meaning. God intended earthly fatherhood to be a reflection of His
heavenly fatherhood. A son learns trust through his experience with a father who
loves him, cares for him, and supports him in his weakness.
Therefore, a Christian father is not measured by the material needs he provides
for his children, but by the faith and trust in God he instills in them. Our
children today do not need someone to teach them how to succeed in the world,
but someone to teach them trust in God amidst a turbulent world. They need a
father who prays, loves, and forgives; a father who puts God first in his life.
A father who lives the Gospel becomes a living Gospel, which his family reads
every day. When children see in their father a man who relies on God more than
on money, power, or position, and who seeks the Kingdom before fleeting earthly
glory, they learn the meaning of true faith. Likewise, today we remember the
spiritual fathers who accompany everyone on the path to salvation and lead them
to the knowledge of Christ. They, too, are called to reflect the image of the
Heavenly Father through love, humility, forgiveness, care, and teaching, so that
Through their service, believers experience the presence and tenderness of God
the Father. He concluded: “The Word of God calls us today to lift our gaze above
the fears of the world and remember that we have been reconciled to God through
the blood of Christ and have become His children. There is no longer room for
despair, nor any reason to doubt His providence. Let us keep the eye of our
hearts simple and pure, and let us seek first the Kingdom of God and His
righteousness, knowing that our Heavenly Father knows our needs before we even
ask Him, and guides our lives with wisdom and love that surpass all
understanding. He has said to us: ‘Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow
or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you
not more valuable than they?… Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow.
They neither toil nor spin; and yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory
was not dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the
field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not
much more clothe you, you of little faith?’” (Matthew 6:26:30). Let our eyes be
simple, so that they may be a lamp to us, as the Lord Jesus said, and our hearts
may be enlightened by the light of Christ.
The Latest English LCCC Miscellaneous
Reports And News published on 21-22 June/2026
Trump: I will destroy Iran if
they don't reach an agreement... and we may seize the Strait of Hormuz
US President: "If Iran doesn't stop its proxies in Lebanon, we will strike them
hard again"
Riyadh: Al-Arabiya.net and
agencies/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
US President Donald Trump again threatened to destroy Iran if an agreement is
not reached, on Sunday, despite the start of direct negotiations between the US
and Iran in Burgenstock, Switzerland. Trump told Fox News, "I will destroy Iran
if they don't reach an agreement." He added, "We may seize the Strait of Hormuz
if necessary." According to Fox News, President Trump told the Iranians that
closing the Strait of Hormuz would mean the negotiating team would not be able
to return. The report added that the US president warned the Iranians yesterday
against closing the Strait of Hormuz. Trump emphasized in a post on Truth Social
that "Iran must immediately stop its proxies in Lebanon from causing trouble,"
vowing to resume the war if Iran does not stop its proxies in Lebanon. Trump
said, "If Iran doesn't stop supporting its proxies, we will hit them hard
again... Iran's support for its proxies in Lebanon is causing a lot of trouble."
Fox News quoted President Trump as saying he was "considering enabling the
Syrian president to enter southern Lebanon and confront Hezbollah." President
Trump said that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian must abide by the rules of
the game "or we will take over Iran." Regarding Pezeshkian's statements about
not abandoning enrichment, Trump added, "He should be careful." A new round of
negotiations between the United States and Iran began on Sunday in Switzerland,
aiming to reach a final agreement to end the war in the Middle East, based on
the memorandum of understanding signed by both sides. Tehran reiterated its
insistence on Israel halting its attacks in Lebanon.
Iran Agreement: Pakistani Prime Minister: We are witnessing a great day that
will lead to world peace. Qatar announced the start of the first meeting in
Burgenstock, Switzerland, with the participation of Iran, the United States, and
Pakistan. Qatar, which is contributing to mediation efforts to end the war in
the Middle East, said that technical and engineering groups have been formed to
negotiate a final agreement between America and Iran, expressing hope that the
meetings between America and Iran will lead to a permanent and comprehensive
agreement.
In protest against Trump's threats, US-Iranian talks in
Switzerland temporarily halted... Iranian negotiating team left the venue.
Riyadh: Al-Arabiya.net and agencies/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google
from Arabic)
After 80 minutes of talks, US-Iranian negotiations in Switzerland were
temporarily halted on Sunday after the Iranian delegation protested statements
by US President Donald Trump. Trump had demanded that Tehran cease supporting
its "proxies" in Lebanon, warning that the United States would destroy Iran if
the negotiations failed. Iranian sources told Al-Arabiya/Al-Hadath on Sunday
that the Iranian negotiating team left the venue in Switzerland after 80 minutes
in protest against the threats made by US President Donald Trump. The Iranian
delegation withdrew from the negotiations in Switzerland regarding the
US-Iranian memorandum of understanding in protest against President Donald
Trump's threats to launch further strikes against Iran due to the situation in
Lebanon, as well as his control of the Strait of Hormuz. According to Al-Arabiya's
correspondent, the Iranians considered Trump's threats regarding the Strait of
Hormuz a violation of the memorandum of understanding, but mediating channels
intervened to maintain the course of the negotiations. In a related development,
the Iranian negotiating team revealed that a draft agreement on oil sanctions
exemptions has been finalized and will be issued soon. The Iranian team also
announced that executive measures have been taken regarding the release of
frozen funds, with the participation of the Qatari delegation. Regarding the
Lebanese issue, the Iranian delegation indicated that it will not negotiate on
any other matters until the war in Lebanon ends. Sources from Al-Arabiya and Al-Hadath
reported the conclusion of the first round of US-Iranian negotiations in
Bürgenstock, Switzerland, which began earlier on Sunday. The second round of
negotiations is scheduled to begin shortly. Iranian media reported that the
first session lasted 80 minutes and that internal consultations took place
afterward. State television reported that the talks "focused on implementing
Article 13 of the Islamabad-Lebanon Memorandum of Understanding, which was given
priority." Tehran insists on a ceasefire between Israel and its ally Hezbollah
in Lebanon, as stipulated in the memorandum of understanding signed with
Washington this week, before negotiating a final agreement that includes several
issues, most notably the nuclear program. A source told CNN that the US and
Iranian delegations discussed the nuclear stockpile issue, and that the meeting
began with open dialogue and a focus on the Strait of Hormuz and Lebanon.
Earlier on Sunday, a new round of negotiations between the United States and
Iran began in Switzerland, aiming to reach a final agreement to end the conflict
in the Middle East, based on the memorandum of understanding signed by both
parties. Tehran reiterated its demand that Israel cease its attacks in Lebanon.
The participating delegations arrived at the meeting hall. Prior to this, Qatar
announced the start of the first meeting in Burgenstock, Switzerland, with the
participation of Iran, the United States, and Pakistan. Qatar, which is
contributing to mediation efforts to end the conflict in the Middle East, stated
that technical and advisory groups had been formed to negotiate the final
agreement between the US and Iran, expressing its hope that the US-Iran meetings
would lead to a permanent and comprehensive agreement. Switzerland is hosting a
new round of negotiations between the United States and Iran aimed at ending the
conflict in the Middle East, based on the memorandum of understanding signed by
both parties. Earlier, Switzerland announced the arrival of delegations to
Burgenstock, with the participation of the American delegation headed by Vice
President J.D. Vance, the Iranian delegation headed by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf,
and the mediators.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry stated that the Burgenstock meeting would be a
one-day event, held in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding. Meetings
would take place between the Iranian and American delegations, with
representatives from Qatar and Pakistan also in attendance. Bilateral meetings
would also be held with the Pakistani and Qatari delegations, acting as
mediators. The Pakistani Foreign Ministry stated that it would continue to
support the understandings reached between the US and Iran, noting that the
Prime Minister was holding bilateral meetings with the US, Iranian, Qatari, and
Swiss delegations. Dr. Majid bin Mohammed Al-Ansari, Advisor to the Prime
Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, told the
Qatar News Agency (QNA) that Qatar, as one of the mediating countries, would
continue to work with Pakistan and all relevant parties to create a positive
environment that would enable the negotiations to achieve their objectives. This
stemmed from Qatar's firm belief that dialogue and diplomacy are the best way to
address conflicts and resolve disputes. He added that follow-up groups had been
formed to oversee the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding,
reflecting the commitment of all parties to advance the negotiation process in
good faith. Ansari praised Pakistan's role as a partner and mediator, Washington
and Tehran's commitment to diplomatic solutions, and the support of Egypt, Saudi
Arabia, the UAE, and Turkey for the negotiation process. Earlier, US Vice
President J.D. Vance arrived in the host country hours after the Iranian
negotiators. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also arrived at the US-Iran
negotiations venue in Burgenstock. Pakistani media reported that Army Chief Asim
Munir had also arrived in Switzerland on Sunday morning. Before boarding his
flight to Europe, Vance stated, "I think we will make progress on the nuclear
issue, and we will make progress on the ceasefire in Lebanon. These are the two
main issues that I think we will focus on." The negotiations were scheduled to
begin on Friday in Switzerland but were postponed at the last minute as Israel
escalated its attacks in Lebanon following the killing of four soldiers,
including an officer, by Hezbollah fire. Washington then reached an agreement to
renew the ceasefire there, a condition of its initial agreement with Iran.
However, Israeli forces clashed again with Hezbollah fighters on Saturday, with
both sides accusing each other of violating the truce. The Khatam al-Anbiya
Headquarters, the central operations room of the Iranian forces, announced in a
statement the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to maritime traffic "due to the
United States' blatant breach of its commitments and in response to Israel's
continued and ongoing violations of the ceasefire in southern Lebanon,"
according to the statement. On Wednesday night, US President Donald Trump and
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian remotely signed a memorandum of
understanding stipulating a cessation of hostilities, including on the Lebanese
front, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and the lifting of the US blockade
on Iranian ports. US Central Command confirmed that safe passage through the
international waterway "remains in place" and that US forces are "vigilant."
Trump later warned that Washington might impose its own transit fees in the
Strait of Hormuz if negotiators fail to reach a deal. Trump wrote on TruthSocial
that there would be no tariffs "unless imposed by the United States of America
and for its own benefit." Iranian state media and the Swiss Foreign Ministry
reported that an Iranian delegation arrived in Switzerland late Saturday.
Iranian state television announced that the delegation included Parliament
Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Foreign Minister Abbas
Araqchi, and Central Bank Governor Abdolnasser Hemmati. Foreign Ministry
spokesman Esmail Baghaei said the delegation would "follow up and demand the
implementation of the other party's commitments" under the agreement, according
to the IRNA news agency. Pakistan confirmed that "technical-level talks" would
be held Sunday in Burgenstock, Switzerland, adding that Pakistani and Qatari
mediators would participate in the discussions with the American and Iranian
delegations. The negotiations are expected to last two months and will address
issues left unresolved by the initial agreement, particularly Iran's nuclear
program.
Al Arabiya Correspondent: Qatari-Pakistani Efforts to Bring
Iranian Delegation Back to Negotiations... Diplomat: Iranian Delegation "Still
Engaged" in Talks with Washington
Al Arabiya.net and Agencies/June 21, 2026 (Translated by
Google from Arabic)
Al Arabiya and Al Hadath's correspondent in Switzerland reported on Sunday
evening that Qatari and Pakistani efforts were underway to bring the Iranian
delegation back to the negotiating table. Meanwhile, a diplomat familiar with
the negotiations between Tehran and Washington confirmed to AFP that the Iranian
delegation, currently in Switzerland for talks with the United States, mediated
by Qatar and Pakistan, aimed at permanently ending the war in the Middle East,
"remains engaged" in the discussions. The diplomat, who requested anonymity,
stated, "The Iranian delegation is still engaged in the talks and has not
informed the mediators of any intention to leave," following Iranian media
reports that the Iranian negotiators had left the building where the talks were
being held. US-Iranian talks in Switzerland were temporarily suspended on Sunday
after the Iranian delegation protested statements by US President Donald Trump,
who demanded that Tehran cease supporting its "proxies" in Lebanon, warning that
the United States would strike Iran "very hard again," and "even harder" than it
did last week, if it did not comply.
The Tasnim news agency, affiliated with Iran's Revolutionary Guard, reported
earlier, citing an informed source, that the Tehran delegation left the
negotiating venue in protest against the US president's remarks. The official
Iranian news agency, IRNA, also reported that "the delegation of the Islamic
Republic of Iran left the building where the negotiations were being held,"
adding that the talks, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, "entered a difficult
phase after 80 minutes of discussions and a period of suspension, following the
release of an offensive message by the US president." This came after US and
Iranian negotiators met with Qatari and Pakistani mediators in Switzerland, as
part of efforts to transform the memorandum of understanding signed between the
two sides into a final agreement, amid disagreements over several issues, most
notably the ceasefire in Lebanon and attempts to solidify it. The talks began
Sunday afternoon on the shores of Lake Lucerne between the US delegation, led by
Vice President Guy Vance, and the Iranian delegation, led by Parliament Speaker
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.
Under the terms of the memorandum of understanding recently signed by the two
countries, a final agreement on ending hostilities, as well as on the Iranian
nuclear program, is to be reached within 60 days. However, these talks were
overshadowed by the ongoing clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah in
Lebanon, despite the ceasefire that is part of the memorandum of understanding.
Before the start of the closed-door negotiations, Vance said that "significant
progress" had already been made in the talks between US and Iranian officials in
Switzerland. Speaking at the Burgenstock resort, where the talks are being held,
Vance explained: "What the president has asked of us is to turn over a new leaf
and transform our relationship with the Iranian people." The US Vice President
added: "We have already made significant progress in the last few hours, and I
expect we will make even more progress."
JD Vance: We are meeting directly with the Iranians for the
first time to resolve outstanding issues
Riyadh: Al-Arabiya.net and agencies/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google
from Arabic)
US Vice President JD Vance said on Sunday, at the start of US-Iranian
negotiations in Switzerland, that this is the first time "we are meeting
directly with the Iranians to resolve outstanding issues." Vance, standing
alongside Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, added: "The technical
negotiations with Iran will allow us to sit down together for the first time in
history." Vance also said: "We will continue working to achieve peace between
Lebanon and Israel." He added that President Donald Trump is committed to
achieving a complete ceasefire in the Middle East. "This is a historic meeting,"
said Guy de Vance as direct talks began between the two countries and mediators
from Qatar and Pakistan in Burgenstock. "What the president has asked of us is
to turn a new page in order to change our relationship with the Iranian people,
and to extend a hand to the Iranians to tell them that if their leaders are
willing to abandon their role as a destabilizing force in the region, and if
they are willing to permanently renounce any ambition to acquire nuclear
weapons, then the United States is ready for a fundamental change in its
relationship with that country." He added, "We must turn the page on the past
with Iran and reshape relations. We will continue to work towards achieving
peace between Lebanon and Israel. We hope to solidify the ceasefire in Lebanon
and make it permanent." He noted that significant progress had been made in the
negotiations "during the past two hours." De Vance emphasized, "Iran must
abandon its nuclear ambitions." He added: "We want to ensure the free flow of
oil and gas in the Middle East. President Trump wants to see a different Middle
East, and he encourages peace and stability. We have opened the Strait of Hormuz
and we look forward to doing more."
Pakistani Foreign Minister Reveals to Al Arabiya the
Atmosphere of US-Iran Negotiations / Ishaq Dar: We Are Confident Washington and
Tehran Will Reach a Final Agreement
Riyadh: Al Arabiya Channel / June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google
from Arabic)
Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced his country's success in
persuading the US and Iran to engage in dialogue and reach a 60-day ceasefire.
In an interview with Al Arabiya and Al Hadath, the Pakistani Foreign Minister
noted Pakistan's success in bringing the US and Iran together for the first time
in 47 years, adding that Pakistani mediation between Washington and Tehran had
been active since day one. He continued, saying, "We worked with partners and
allies to ensure the success of the mediation," emphasizing that "the war
between the US and Iran was devastating and had negative economic
repercussions." Dar revealed the existence of "three technical teams
participating in the negotiations between the US and Iran," indicating that the
technical committees are discussing the nuclear issue, frozen assets, and
Lebanon. He stressed that "the situation in the Strait of Hormuz must return to
what it was before the war," adding that no transit fees would be imposed during
the 60-day period. He continued, "Ships will not be prevented from passing
through the Strait of Hormuz during this 60-day period." The Pakistani Foreign
Minister noted that "China supports freedom of passage through the Strait of
Hormuz in both directions without fees." He explained that ships are currently
sailing in both directions through the Strait of Hormuz, and there will be no
fees, whether for "transit" or "services." Speaking to Al Arabiya and Al Hadath,
he added, "We will continue our mediation efforts and remain hopeful despite
those who want to undermine the agreement," describing Israel's attacks in
Lebanon as "provocative" and demanding an end to them. The Pakistani Foreign
Minister also stated that he had agreed with the foreign ministers of Saudi
Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey to revive the Gaza issue. Regarding the Iranian
nuclear file, the Pakistani Foreign Minister stated that "America requested the
transfer of Iran's stockpile," revealing that a solution had been reached to
"reduce enrichment." He continued, "An agreement was reached to reduce the
enrichment level of Iran's nuclear stockpile," clarifying that this stockpile
"remains buried underground." The Pakistani Foreign Minister also explained that
US President Donald Trump "personally oversaw the talks," considering that
"America and Iran concluded that diplomacy is the solution." He added,
"We hope that the talks between America and Iran will proceed positively,"
anticipating that the next stage of the negotiations between the two sides will
be more difficult. In protest against Trump's threats, the US-Iranian talks in
Switzerland were temporarily suspended. He emphasized that "war in the Middle
East affects the entire world," adding, "We want to prevent its escalation, and
we are confident that America and Iran will reach a final agreement." The
Pakistani Foreign Minister considered that "a final agreement between America
and Iran will be in everyone's interest," rejecting "doubts about the intentions
of Washington and Tehran." He affirmed that "there is nothing negative in the
memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran," noting that "the
issue of sanctions on Iran will be discussed bilaterally with the United
States." The Pakistani Foreign Minister revealed that "Saudi Arabia, Qatar,
Egypt, and the UAE supported the mediation efforts." He said, "We are constantly
updating Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, and our allies on the results of the
talks." The Pakistani Foreign Minister considered that "things have progressed
significantly between Washington and Tehran," confirming that "Iran has
expressed its satisfaction and agreement to reduce the enrichment level of its
stockpile." He continued, "We must be patient a little longer, and we will reach
results satisfactory to both the United States and Iran." He explained that "it
was agreed to sign the memorandum of understanding remotely to expedite its
implementation," emphasizing that there is no harm in this. He stressed that
"everything agreed upon between the United States and Iran is included in the
memorandum of understanding," indicating that "the foreign ministers of Saudi
Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey have been briefed on the memorandum of understanding."
Following Trump's threats... Qalibaf: Washington should be wary,
our armed forces are ready to respond... Trump threatened to destroy Iran and
seize control of the Strait of Hormuz
Al-Arabiya.net, Agencies/June 21, 2026 (Translated by
Google from Arabic)
In response to recent threats by US President Donald Trump to resume bombing
Iran, Iranian Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf
asserted on Sunday that the US should be cautious in its statements, as the
Iranian armed forces are prepared to respond. Qalibaf also advised Washington to
"be mindful" of its pronouncements, coinciding with the start of new
negotiations between the two sides in Switzerland. Writing on the X platform,
Qalibaf stated, "Don't they see that if their threats had any effect, they
wouldn't be in such a desperate state now? We don't take American threats into
account." He added, "It would be better for them to be mindful of what they
say... Our armed forces are ready to respond to them in a different way...
Whatever they say, we are the ones who take the initiative." Earlier on Sunday,
the Iranian news agency Tasnim reported that the Iranian delegation
participating in the ongoing negotiations in Switzerland was considering options
for responding to the recent statements and threats made by US President Donald
Trump. According to the agency, the Iranian delegation members are assessing the
various positions on the table and how to deal with the American pressure,
amidst a tense atmosphere as the talks between the two sides continue. Just
moments before, US President Donald Trump hinted at the possibility of the
United States seizing control of the Strait of Hormuz if necessary, threatening
Iran with destruction should the negotiations in Switzerland fail. Trump told
Fox News, "I will destroy Iran if they don't make a deal... and we may take
control of the Strait of Hormuz if we have to." According to Fox News, President
Trump told the Iranians that closing the Strait of Hormuz would mean the
negotiating team would not be able to return. The report added that the US
president warned the Iranians yesterday against closing the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran deal: We are meeting directly with the Iranians for the first time to
resolve outstanding issues. Trump's statements come at a time when negotiations
between Washington and Tehran are witnessing intensive diplomatic efforts
mediated by regional actors, amid anticipation of the talks' outcome and their
impact on regional security and global markets.
Trump: I will destroy Iran if they don't reach an agreement... and we may
control the Strait of Hormuz.
US President: "If Iran doesn't stop its proxies in Lebanon, we will strike them
hard again."
Riyadh: Al-Arabiya.net and agencies/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google
from Arabic)
US President Donald Trump again threatened to destroy Iran if an agreement is
not reached, on Sunday, despite the start of direct negotiations between the US
and Iran in Burgenstock, Switzerland. Trump told Fox News: "I will destroy Iran
if they don't reach an agreement." He added: "We may control the Strait of
Hormuz if necessary." According to Fox News, President Trump told the Iranians
that closing the Strait of Hormuz would prevent the negotiating team from
returning. The report added that the US president warned the Iranians yesterday
against closing the Strait of Hormuz. Trump emphasized in a post on Truth Social
that "Iran must immediately stop its proxies in Lebanon from causing trouble,"
threatening to resume war if Iran did not stop its proxies in Lebanon. Trump
stated, "If Iran does not stop supporting its proxies, we will hit them very
hard again... Iran's support for its proxies in Lebanon is causing a lot of
trouble." Fox News quoted President Trump as saying that he is "considering
enabling the Syrian president to enter southern Lebanon and confront Hezbollah."
President Trump said that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian must abide by the
rules of the game "or we will take over Iran." Regarding Pezeshkian's statements
about not abandoning enrichment, Trump added, "He should be careful." A new
round of negotiations between the United States and Iran began Sunday in
Switzerland, aimed at reaching a final agreement to end the conflict in the
Middle East, based on the memorandum of understanding signed by both sides.
Tehran reiterated its demand that Israel cease its attacks in Lebanon. Qatar
announced the start of the first meeting in Burgenstock, Switzerland, with the
participation of Iran, the United States, and Pakistan. Qatar, which is
contributing to mediation efforts to end the conflict in the Middle East, stated
that technical and advisory groups have been formed to negotiate a final
agreement between the US and Iran, expressing its hope that the US-Iran meetings
will lead to a lasting and comprehensive agreement.
Details of the Iranian negotiating team's entry into the meeting hall... The
Iranian negotiating team refused to take a joint photo with the American
delegation.
Al-Arabiya.net, Agencies/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
At the start of the American-Iranian negotiations in Switzerland on Sunday, the
American delegation and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi arrived at the
hall designated for the closed-door talks between the two countries, with the
participation of the Pakistani and Qatari mediators. Sources told Al-Arabiya/Al-Hadath
that the Iranian negotiating team entered the meeting hall after stipulating
that it be completely cleared of journalists. The sources added that the Iranian
negotiating team refused to take a joint photo with the American delegation. A
new round of negotiations began on Sunday in Switzerland between the United
States and Iran, aiming to reach a final agreement to end the war in the Middle
East, based on the memorandum of understanding signed by both parties. Tehran
reiterated its insistence on Israel halting its attacks in Lebanon. The arrival
of all participating delegations at the meeting hall was completed. Prior to
this, Qatar announced the start of the first meeting in Burgenstock,
Switzerland, with the participation of Iran, the United States, and Pakistan.
Qatar, which is contributing to mediation efforts to end the war in the Middle
East, stated that technical and advisory groups have been formed to negotiate a
final agreement between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that the
US-Iran meetings will lead to a lasting and comprehensive agreement. Switzerland
is hosting a new round of negotiations between the United States and Iran aimed
at ending the war in the Middle East, based on the memorandum of understanding
signed by both parties. Earlier, Switzerland announced the arrival of all
delegations in Burgenstock, including the US delegation headed by Vice President
Guy de Vance, the Iranian delegation headed by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and the
mediators. The Iranian Foreign Ministry stated that the Burgenstock meeting will
be held for one day, in accordance with the memorandum of understanding, and
that meetings will be held between the Iranian and US delegations with
representatives from Qatar and Pakistan, as well as bilateral meetings with the
Pakistani and Qatari delegations in their capacity as mediators. The Pakistani
Foreign Ministry stated that it will continue to support the understandings
reached between the US and Iran, noting that the Prime Minister is holding
bilateral meetings with the US, Iranian, Qatari, and Swiss delegations.
Republican Senator Reveals Trump's Plan if Negotiations
Fail... Lindsey Graham Spent Four and a Half Hours with the US President
Washington - Bandar Al-Doushi/Al-Arabiya/June 21, 2026 (Translated by
Google from Arabic)
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham revealed that he spent four and a half hours
with US President Donald Trump last Friday, and explained the scenario the US
administration anticipates if the current deal with Iran fails. In statements to
CBS News, Graham said, "I spent four and a half hours with President Trump on
Friday. Here's what I think will happen next. If this deal fails, President
Trump will take the Strait of Hormuz by force." We will impose tolls on all
those passing through it to cover the costs of the operation… and if Iran
challenges the United States' control of the Strait of Hormuz, we will destroy
it.” The statement comes at a time of rapid developments in the Iranian issue,
following the initial US-Iranian memorandum of understanding to reopen the
Strait of Hormuz to international navigation, while negotiations continue
regarding the Iranian nuclear program and other matters. The Strait of Hormuz is
one of the world's most important strategic waterways, through which
approximately 20% of the world's oil supply passes, making any threat to its
stability a direct impact on global energy markets. The statement reflects
Graham's hardline stance toward Iran and comes in the context of his previous
doubts about Tehran's commitment to the agreements.
Saudi Arabia included in a four-way meeting in Cairo to discuss
efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region... and addressed the Israeli
military escalation against Lebanon.
Riyadh: Al-Arabiya.net/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google
from Arabic)
A four-way meeting comprising Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Pakistan, and Turkey
discussed the latest regional developments and efforts to de-escalate tensions,
particularly Pakistani mediation in light of the memorandum of understanding
signed between the United States and Iran. The meeting, held in Cairo, also
addressed the Israeli military escalation against Lebanon and emphasized the
need to continue working and intensify coordination and consultation to ensure
the continuation of the diplomatic process, mitigate the repercussions of the
crisis, and restore security and stability to the region, according to the Saudi
Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Prince Faisal bin Farhan, the Saudi Foreign
Minister, participated in the fourth meeting of the foreign ministers of the
four regional parties, which also included Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Deputy Prime
Minister and Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan; Dr. Badr Al-Abd
Al-Ati, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation; and Hakan
Fidan, Foreign Minister of Turkey. The four countries issued a joint statement
affirming their full support for the ongoing negotiations between Iran and the
United States. In the same context, the four countries called for the success of
the negotiation process between the two sides in a way that contributes to
strengthening regional security and stability.
Saudi-Egyptian-Pakistani-Turkish Statement Supporting US-Iranian
Negotiations
Riyadh - Al-Arabiya.net/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Pakistan, and Turkey issued a joint statement affirming
their full support for the ongoing negotiations between Iran and the United
States. They called for the success of the negotiating process between the two
sides, which would contribute to strengthening regional security and stability.
The statement followed a quadrilateral meeting of representatives from the four
countries, during which they discussed recent developments related to the
Iranian crisis and diplomatic efforts to contain tensions in the region. The
participants affirmed their support for the implementation of the US-Iranian
Memorandum of Understanding, considering it an important step towards
de-escalating tensions and paving the way for a broader settlement that
contributes to achieving regional stability. The statement emphasized the
importance of continuing dialogue and diplomacy as the primary option for
addressing outstanding issues and avoiding escalation. In a related context, the
quadrilateral statement affirmed that resolving the Palestinian issue is a
fundamental condition for achieving comprehensive stability in the Middle East
region, stressing the necessity of reaching a just and comprehensive settlement
that guarantees the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.The statement
comes amid a flurry of diplomatic activity in the region, with escalating
regional and international efforts to contain crises and enhance opportunities
for political and security stability.
Qatar: Explosion at Ras Laffan Plant, Several Injured
Doha: Asharq Al-Awsat/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
The Qatari Ministry of Interior stated that an explosion occurred on Sunday at a
plant in Ras Laffan, the country's main liquefied natural gas (LNG) processing
hub, north of the capital, Doha. The ministry reported injuries but confirmed
that there were no leaks threatening public safety. While the ministry did not
specify the exact location of the explosion, an informed source indicated it
occurred at the Barzan Gas Plant in Ras Laffan due to an operational error.
Qatar Energy later confirmed in a statement that an operational incident
occurred during the start-up of operations at Ras Laffan Industrial City,
resulting in an explosion and fire at the Barzan plant, which serves domestic
gas needs.
The Latest LCCC analysis & editorials from
miscellaneous sources published on 21-22 June/2026
Trump's Iran 'Deal'
Pierre Rehov/Gatestone Institute/June 21, 2026
https://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/22634/trump-iran-deal
The 14-point text is unambiguous on the point the White House is most eager to
fog. It commits the United States, "with regional partners," to develop a "plan
with at least USD 300 billion for the reconstruction and economic development of
the Islamic Republic of Iran" -- $3 billion of which has, according to the
unsurpassed journalist, Lee Smith, already been sent to Iran through by way of
the United Arab Emirates. The president has called reports of that figure "fake
news" and insisted nobody is putting up "ten cents." The clause nevertheless
sits prominently in the document he signed.
Only one question really matters: what does the agreement, if honored by Iran,
deliver? It leaves enriched uranium inside Iran, concedes a right to enrichment
that was recently a red line, permits the Iranian ballistic-missile program
Trump now defends supposedly because other countries have missiles too, and
pours reconstruction money into an economy whose ruling institution is the
brutal Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
An interim framework can easily be a device for extracting one concrete
concession -- opening the shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz -- while the
other clauses quietly expire.
Trump has repeated that if the deal collapses he will return to force – but who
will do that after he is no longer president?
Each Israeli reprisal can trigger an Iranian walkout, and each walkout hands
Washington a legal pretext to resume the war it paused. If Trump, however, is
reluctant to use force against Iran again now, why should anyone think that he
would be more inclined to use it later?
Without a united opposition to inherit power and without an army to seize
Tehran, talk of liberation is a consolation, not a strategy. The war degraded
the regime; it did not remove it -- and nothing in this agreement will. In fact,
the MOU promises to enrich the IRGC again so that it can tighten its hold on the
Iranian people even more viciously.
So the memorandum sits there, looking like the clumsiest concession an American
administration has made to a sworn enemy in a generation...
The regime in Tehran, which has waited out many American presidents and means to
wait out another, is betting they are bluffing about everything except the
check.
What does the agreement, if honored by Iran, deliver? It leaves enriched uranium
inside Iran, concedes a right to enrichment that was recently a red line,
permits the Iranian ballistic-missile program Trump now defends supposedly
because other countries have missiles too, and pours reconstruction money into
an economy whose ruling institution is the brutal Islamic Revolutionary Guard
Corps. Pictured: A Fattah ballistic missile is displayed during the annual
military parade in Tehran, on September 22, 2023. (Photo by AFP via Getty
Images)
After a war launched in February to end the Iranian nuclear threat, the United
States has agreed to a 60-day ceasefire, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz,
the lifting of its naval blockade, the unfreezing of Iranian assets, and an
immense $300 billion reconstruction fund for the very regime the U.S. Air Force
spent weeks degrading. The triumph turns out to be a recipe for everything Iran
wanted and could not win on the battlefield.
The 14-point text is unambiguous on the point the White House is most eager to
fog. It commits the United States, "with regional partners," to develop a "plan
with at least USD 300 billion for the reconstruction and economic development of
the Islamic Republic of Iran" -- $3 billion of which has, according to the
unsurpassed journalist, Lee Smith, already been sent to Iran through by way of
the United Arab Emirates. The president has called reports of that figure "fake
news" and insisted nobody is putting up "ten cents." The clause nevertheless
sits prominently in the document he signed.
To disclaim the funding by arranging for someone else to pay for it is a
familiar maneuver. US Vice President J.D. Vance confirmed the transfer on CBS
News and described a Gulf coalition that would finance Iran's recovery if Tehran
behaved. Trump then turned and blamed Vance for the wording, saying that the
statement "could have been a little more accurate." A vice president publicly
scolded for telling the truth about his administration's own deal hardly
projects strength or that the president is being straight with his public.
Vance answered not by reassuring the ally most threatened by the agreement,
Israel, but by attacking it. In remarks aimed at Israel's government, he lashed
out at members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's cabinet as ungrateful,
declared that Israel had only one leader in the world who was a friend -- which
is far from true -- and claimed the Israel's weapons were paid for by American
taxpayers, while omitting that much of the intelligence shared with America
comes from Israel, as does much of the military know-how.
His condescension carried the rest of what one needs to know about him. This is
the same Vance who told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, "You are wrong"
during a televised meeting at the White House, when Zelensky gently suggested
that Ukraine needs stronger US support in battling the devastating invasion by
Russia, an understatement if there ever was one. Russia continues to violate the
1994 Budapest Memorandum, in which it had guaranteed not to invade Ukraine if it
gave up all its nuclear weapons – as it sadly did.
Here is the second-highest official in the United States telling Israel, which
has just fought alongside America, to be quiet, be grateful, and that its
survival is a favor it has not sufficiently repaid. American leaders have
disagreed with Jerusalem for as long as the alliance has existed. Lecturing
Israel about gratitude while handing its enemy $300 billion, and an agreement
that all but guarantees its enemies the means to continue trying to destroy it,
is a tack that is newer and nastier.
The arrogant tone might be tolerable if it were only distasteful. It rests,
regrettably, on a falsehood about who won the war. The US campaign against Iran,
dubbed Operation Epic Fury, was sold to the public as a feat of American
airpower – which was real, spectacular and welcome. The targeting that made
those strikes so precise did not come from satellites alone. It came from years
of intelligence collected by Israel from inside Iran, which let the bombs find
their marks. The men now telling Israel to be grateful are standing on the
shoulders of the intelligence Israel handed them, without which the US could
have gotten bogged down. That is the problem with the boast: Washington is
presenting as its own a result it could not have accomplished by itself, and
basing its diplomacy on the assumption that it could have done.
Only one question really matters: what does the agreement, if honored by Iran,
deliver? It leaves enriched uranium inside Iran, concedes a right to enrichment
that was recently a red line, permits the Iranian ballistic-missile program
Trump now defends supposedly because other countries have missiles too, and
pours reconstruction money into an economy whose ruling institution is the
brutal Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
The scale is another factor that resists comprehension. The promised $300
billion fund is large enough to rebuild not only the economy of Iran but the
apparatus of terrorist proxies controlled by it. Gulf analysts quoted in the
Israeli media warn that the funds would free resources for Iran's proxy militias
in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen. A regime that emerged from the war with the
IRGC strengthened and its pragmatists dead is now to be financed back to
dominance.
Probably no one actually believes that the agreement was ever meant to function
as written. Washington has done this before. The three-phase plan for Gaza,
announced with great solemnity, did accomplish the return of the remaining
Israeli hostages in its opening stage, but then stalled, never advancing to the
later phases meant to remake the territory. Phase one became the entire play. An
interim framework can easily be a device for extracting one concrete concession
-- opening the shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz -- while the other clauses
quietly expire.
There is a more generous reading: If Trump signed in order to appear to give
Iran everything, draw it to the table, and get the oil flowing before the
midterms, all while knowing the structure would never hold, then the concessions
are bait rather than surrender. The problem is that it seems from the memorandum
of understanding (MOU) that most of the benefits to Iran are given up front, so
the weak bargaining position that remains for the US can easily be dragged out
by Iran past Trump's term in office.
Israel has stated plainly that it does not consider itself bound by the MOU so
long as Hezbollah fires on its forces; it has kept striking Hezbollah
strongholds in Lebanon.
Trump has repeated that if the deal collapses he will return to force – but who
will do that after he is no longer president? If anyone imagines that a
coalition of anyone will actually enforce anything after the first shot is fired
by the IRGC, they are probably on some high-grade cannabis. We have already seen
how that arrangement worked out in south Lebanon. It did not. That is why Israel
is having to fight for its survival again there now.
Each Israeli reprisal can trigger an Iranian walkout, and each walkout hands
Washington a legal pretext to resume the war it paused. If Trump, however, is
reluctant to use force against Iran again now, why should anyone think that he
would be more inclined to use it later? The weakness of it is that it depends on
enemies who have spent 47 years learning to read American intentions better than
Washington appears able to.
The optimistic reading is not the consensus even in Washington, and the unease
inside the administration shows it. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, an Iran hawk
of long standing and the official who ran the negotiations until the final week,
vanished from public view the minute the deal was signed, then surfacing only as
a glum figure behind the president at a press conference. A secretary of state
who believes in this agreement would be trying to sell it. On Capitol Hill the
reproaches were open: Senator Ted Cruz warned against handing billions to a
regime that wants Americans dead. Senator Roger Wicker said the MOU negotiated
away the victories of the war. The evangelical base that delivered Trump's
coalition, and that regards the defense of Israel as scriptural obligation
rather than policy preference, watched the administration, in the same week,
scold Jerusalem and finance Iran.
Through all of this, one fantasy deserves to be retired. Regime change in Tehran
has been wished for in every Western capital for nearly 50 years, but it was not
the stated aim of this war -- apart from falsely promising the Iranians, who
have been trying for years to remove their brutal regime, that "HELP IS ON ITS
WAY." Instead, they seem to have decided to leave that dirty work to unarmed
civilians with no weapons.
A regime falls when an organized force is ready to take power and when soldiers
are willing to change sides -- and neither condition is yet in place in Iran.
The Iranian opposition had been slaughtered, fractured and surveilled, and is
leaderless, and the regime has spent decades locking every door. The United
States will not deploy ground troops on Iranian soil. Without a united
opposition to inherit power and without an army to seize Tehran, talk of
liberation is a consolation, not a strategy. The war degraded the regime; it did
not remove it -- and nothing in this agreement will. In fact, the MOU promises
to enrich the IRGC again so that it can tighten its hold on the Iranian people
even more viciously.
So the memorandum sits there, looking like the clumsiest concession an American
administration has made to a sworn enemy in a generation, possibly exceeded only
by having surrendered to the Taliban in Afghanistan. The danger is that this
reading is the one being made in Beijing and Moscow: one where a superpower that
bombs a country for weeks, then grants it $300 billion dollars and the right to
nuclear weapons.
The US looks less like a chess player setting a trap than like a tired hegemon
buying its way out of a war before an election. If China and Russia conclude
that American threats expire on a domestic political calendar, the lesson will
be applied again in Iran, as well as the Taiwan Strait and along the borders of
Ukraine. Vance insulted an ally to defend the deal. Rubio disappeared. Trump
denied what his own signature had endorsed. All three have staked their
credibility on choosing not to finish what they had so brilliantly begun.
The regime in Tehran, which has waited out many American presidents and means to
wait out another, is betting they are bluffing about everything except the
check.
**Pierre Rehov, who holds a law degree from Paris-Assas, is a French reporter,
novelist and documentary filmmaker. He is the author of six novels, including
"Beyond Red Lines", "The Third Testament" and "Red Eden", translated from
French. His latest essay on the aftermath of the October 7 massacre " 7 octobre
- La riposte " became a bestseller in France. As a filmmaker, he has produced
and directed 17 documentaries, many photographed at high risk in Middle Eastern
war zones, and focusing on terrorism, media bias, and the persecution of
Christians. His latest documentary, "Pogrom(s)" highlights the context of
ancient Jew hatred within Muslim civilization as the main force behind the
October 7 massacre.
© 2026 Gatestone Institute. All rights reserved. The articles printed here do
not necessarily reflect the views of the Editors or of Gatestone Institute. No
part of the Gatestone website or any of its contents may be reproduced, copied
or modified, without the prior written consent of Gatestone Institute.
The Middle East between the “Obama Agreement” and the “Trump
Agreement”
Abdullah bin Bajad Al-Otaibi/Asharq Al-Awsat/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google
from Arabic)
The signing of the memorandum of understanding between the United States and
Iran topped all regional and international news outlets, after weeks that
witnessed a heated American-Israeli war against Iran. Then the war entered a
phase of calm, full of fake news, misleading analyzes and misinformation from
both the American and Iranian sides. It is a new type of fierce military war
whose goal is to reach a quick agreement, which explains the speed and severity
of the fluctuations.
A clear distinction must be made between the “memorandum of understanding” that
was signed by the two parties and the “final agreement” that will result from
negotiations between the two parties in Switzerland or elsewhere in the next
stage. This memorandum of understanding applies to the noble prophetic
expression: “a corner on a side,” meaning that it is weak and cannot bear the
size of the differences between the two parties, as well as awareness of the
geographical environment that will be affected by it both negatively and
positively. The large and influential countries of the region are the Arab Gulf
states and the State of Israel, and in the peripheries. The State of Pakistan
and the State of Türkiye. This memorandum is a memorandum to build confidence
between the two parties, America and Iran, and it ignores the importance of
building confidence between the countries of the region, which was clearly
stated by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. Although the “Obama
agreement” failed, it failed according to the countries of the region. Because
he did not resolve the Iranian “nuclear weapon,” but rather gave it the
opportunity to develop, and because he was silent on the issue of preventing
interference in the internal affairs of states, he thus allowed the support of
“political Islam groups,” the strengthening of “terrorist organizations,” and
the establishment of “sectarian militias.” These are issues of great importance
before and after for all countries in the region, and if the expected agreement
cannot deal with them clearly, its fate will not be better than its predecessor.
There are facts that should be paid attention to and recalled that are more
established than the quick and urgent political decisions that prompted the
hastening of the signing of this “memorandum,” including the fact that the
Arabian Gulf is more like an Arabian lake, and the Strait of Hormuz is named
after the Arab Kingdom of Hormuz, and it is an Arabian Gulf. Because all the
peoples and societies that live on its banks are authentic Arabs, regardless of
the kingdoms that ruled, and the countries that rule.
Likewise, the fact that Iran as a country is a country full of religions,
ethnicities, sects and sects, all of which are recognized and whose lineage and
numbers are recorded in well-known local and international numbers. The third
fact is that in modern times and after the First and Second World Wars, the maps
in the Middle East region were redrawn, and independent states emerged with
interlocking, unnatural borders intended to continue stirring up disputes, and
nationalities that were not known in the history of the region arose. For
centuries, they built an independent state, and some ethnic nationalities in
history were deprived of the existence of a state that represented them.
Anyone who believes they can nullify international maritime law under any
pretext or justification is truly delusional and far removed from political
realism and rationality, especially in a region whose nations are wealthy,
powerful, and independent. These nations cannot be subjected to cheap blackmail
while they are at the height of their civilizational progress and striving to
achieve their future aspirations. Like individuals, nations have their
interests, their pride, and their dignity. The Obama agreement has failed.
Because he completely ignored the security concerns of the countries in the
region and the threats they face in general and in detail, and if the final
agreement between the two parties does not fully take into account these
concerns and threats, then this agreement will not last longer than the previous
agreement, for no other reason than that countries whose interests are not taken
into account directly, clearly and explicitly will not be forced to agree to
such an agreement. Some international agreements have been the reason for
changing the balance of power regionally and internationally, and they had their
well-known historical consequences. The clearest examples are the agreements
that ended the First World War and their results in creating the Second World
War, as well as the new international order after it that allowed for the
creation of the “Cold War.” Any attempts to create a new international order
that is far from rationality and political realism as much as it is close to the
logic of power that acts haphazardly cannot predict its future, and therefore it
will be difficult to agree to it, let alone support it. There is much to comment
on in this "Memorandum of Understanding," some of which are glaringly important
and warrant scrutiny, identifying their strengths and weaknesses and analyzing
their underlying meanings. However, all of this is premature at this stage.
Finally, we wish this memorandum and the resulting final agreement every
success, and we hope for a rejection of wars and bloody conflicts. But bad
agreements create a worse reality, as President Trump called Obama's agreement.
On the Contents of the US-Iranian Memorandum of
Understanding
Former Judge and Lawyer François Daher / Facebook / June 21, 2026
(Translated by Google from Arabic)
The US-Iranian Memorandum of Understanding, concluded electronically on June 16,
2026, comprised fourteen articles.
Seven of these articles benefited Iran and its allies, three benefited the US
and its allies, and four were procedural articles related to the memorandum's
provisions.
The seven articles benefiting Iran and its allies addressed the following
issues:
- The immediate and permanent cessation of military operations on all fronts,
including Lebanon, and guaranteeing its territorial integrity and sovereignty.
- The complete lifting of the naval blockade on Iran within 30 days.
- A commitment by the United States to develop a reconstruction plan for Iran
valued at no less than $300 billion, and to establish an implementation
mechanism within the final agreement within 60 days.
- The lifting of all sanctions on Iran according to a timetable within the final
agreement.
- Immediate authorization for Iran to resume exporting crude oil and petroleum
products, and to utilize all banking services related to export transactions.
- Immediate authorization for Iran to utilize its frozen assets and funds, and
to proceed with the necessary steps for their release during negotiations.
- Negotiations on a final agreement shall not commence until all the
aforementioned provisions have been implemented.
The three provisions that serve the interests of the United States and its
allies address the following:
- Iran guarantees the immediate and free passage of commercial vessels for a
period of 60 days only, and completes the removal of obstacles and mines within
30 days.
- Iran pledges not to pursue the acquisition or development of nuclear weapons,
to address the issue of its stockpiled enriched materials, to reduce enrichment
to a minimum level at its nuclear sites, and to discuss Iran's nuclear needs.
- Iran pledges to maintain the current status of its nuclear program, and the
United States refrains from imposing any new sanctions on Iran or deploying any
additional forces in the region. The contentious issues not addressed in the
Memorandum of Understanding are as follows:
- Ballistic missiles.
- The fate of Iran's proxies in Arab countries.
The Lebanese situation was addressed in Article 1 of the Memorandum of
Understanding, as follows:
- The immediate and permanent cessation of military operations on the Lebanese
front.
- A commitment not to initiate any war or military operation in the future.
- A guarantee of Lebanon's territorial integrity and sovereignty.
- The final agreement will confirm the permanent end of the war on the Lebanese
front between the belligerents (Israel and Hezbollah).
This practically means:
⁃ A final and permanent cessation of military actions between Hezbollah and
Israel.
⁃ Israel’s withdrawal from the security belt it established within Lebanese
territory.
⁃ Hezbollah maintaining its weapons.
⁃ Not specifying the party or authority that will assume the responsibility of
extending its authority in the Lebanese areas from which Israel will withdraw.
So that the memorandum of understanding, in its first clause, reconnected the
Lebanese situation with the comprehensive conflict file existing between Iran
and the United States of America. Thus, the final negotiations between the two
countries will not begin, in accordance with Clause 13 of that memorandum, until
the first clause, which concerns Lebanon, is implemented.
Which puts the United States of America in a position where it is forced to
conduct the negotiations it sponsors in Washington between Lebanon and the State
of Israel according to the same methodology, hierarchy, priorities and contents
stipulated in the memorandum of understanding that it concluded with Iran on
6/16/2026.
Considering that it constitutes a comprehensive road map of the current conflict
situation between the warring parties in the region that extends from the
Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, passing through the countries of the
Arabian Peninsula through the Strait of Bab al-Mandab, all the way to the
Mediterranean Sea via the Suez Canal.
The question remains as to whether the allies of the signatories of the
Memorandum of Understanding, especially Israel and Hezbollah, will abide by what
was concluded on their behalf and in its name by their supporters, the United
States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran, in light of keeping the
Iranian Emiri Party’s weapons in its hands and the sustainable threat it poses
to the security of Israel and its entity?
Hundreds of casualties and injuries: the price of a seat for the
"Shia duo" at a "secondary table" outside all tracks!
Tony Jabran/Al-Markazia/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
Al-Markazia – Well-informed diplomatic and political sources have been examining
the series of positions that followed the second ceasefire agreement reached
through the "Islamabad track," announced on June 14, coinciding with the
announcement of the "American-Iranian Understanding." This is the second such
agreement in two weeks, following the first agreement announced through the
"Washington track" on June 4, at the end of the fourth round of direct
Lebanese-Israeli negotiations sponsored by the US State Department. The sources
are attempting to draw a comparison between the two agreements and the resulting
calamities and disasters, which have increased the number of military martyrs,
casualties, and wounded, and led to further expansion of the Israeli occupation
towards the Litani River, extending beyond it at several points towards Ali
Taher Hill after Nabatieh and a number of surrounding villages.
These developments have resulted in hundreds of casualties and injuries. Against
this backdrop, sources told Al-Markazia that it is not difficult to point to the
magnitude of the disasters resulting from Iran and its Lebanese arm, Hezbollah,
refusing to accept the political cover provided by the Amal Movement for the
initial ceasefire agreement. This refusal stemmed from the fact that the
agreement was issued by the "Washington table," which brought together those
representing legitimate Lebanon in direct confrontation with the Israelis, under
the umbrella of the same American initiative that overshadowed the understanding
with Iran. This understanding was brokered by the Pakistani and Qatari
mediators, who repeatedly expressed their support for the efforts of President
Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam in all the steps taken to restore the
decision of war and peace to the legitimate and constitutional authority. This
was achieved without severing lines of communication with Speaker Nabih Berri,
given his dual role as head of the legislative branch and as the "elder brother"
of the Shiite duo, thus distancing themselves from the forces experienced in
implementing foreign agendas, particularly those of Iran.
These sources, expressing the profound "shock" caused by the "Khamenei revenge"
war—a war that no one has been able to end quickly, especially since it
exacerbated the disasters of the "support for Gaza" war without being affected
by its consequences—stated that this reality was not new or the result of a new
strategy. Rather, it was an extension of a long period that began two and a half
decades ago, following the complete liberation of Lebanese territory in 2000.
This liberation was a rare opportunity to establish a framework for
"neutralizing Lebanon" from the major alliances in the region and the world, an
alliance that was never honored. After the July 2006 war, Lebanon became an
arena for proxy wars on behalf of the Iranian regime and its allies, who were
united in the "axis of resistance" against the "international coalition against
terrorism" in the aftermath of the Iraq War, and later against ISIS in Iraq and
Syria. This was before their involvement in the Syrian war as an Iranian
faction, alongside those sponsored by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, such as
the "Abbasids" and "Fatimiyoun" groups, and other groups operating in both Syria
and Iraq after their integration according to the strategy. Iran, which linked
Tehran to the Mediterranean basin and the borders with Israel via Baghdad and
Damascus, thus adding Lebanon to the list of conflict zones that Syria
witnessed, culminating in the fall of its regime, after the destruction of Iraq,
Yemen, and the Gaza Strip, in addition to the security problems faced by the
Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, following Saudi Arabia and
Kuwait, which, albeit to varying degrees, shared the calamities and disasters
that Lebanon and the Lebanese people endured as a result of the series of wars
throughout this period.
Given these undeniable facts, diplomatic sources were keen to express their deep
concern about the situation in Lebanon, particularly regarding relations between
the legitimate and constitutional authorities. They were particularly shocked by
the stance of Speaker Nabih Berri, who welcomed the new ceasefire agreement
reached in Islamabad seven days prior, without it being final or comprehensive.
The same gamble remained in place as with the first ceasefire on June 4th: the
extent of Iranian and American guarantees to restrain the warring parties in
Lebanon—Israel and Hezbollah. These parties exchanged favors, the price of which
was paid by two Lebanese soldiers, over 197 Lebanese fatalities, and more than
247 wounded between the ceasefire welcomed by the Shiite duo on June 14th and
Saturday. This includes the victims of the second "Black Wednesday" after the
first on April 8th, which saw over 61 dead and approximately 120 wounded. On
Friday, June 19th, the death toll rose to around 49, with 97 more wounded. More
than 30 bodies were recovered from under the rubble of destroyed houses in
southern Lebanon and the western and northern Bekaa Valley. In addition, some
tunnels whose entrances were damaged were also recovered, as access to these
tunnels had become impossible. Dozens more bodies remained buried under the
rubble and were subsequently listed as missing.
What further fueled the resentment of these authorities towards the position of
the "Shia duo," both its political and military wings, was the prevailing belief
within its circles that it could be present at any negotiating table, replacing
the Lebanese delegation at the Washington talks, even if it were a secondary
table attached to the Iranian delegation, outside of all existing channels. This
coincided with several Iranian statements in which the speaker openly and
"shamelessly" thanked the duo and its "resistance," which has sacrificed more
than 4,000 martyrs and over 11,000 wounded "in defense" of Iran and "in revenge"
for the Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, whom the Iranians have yet to bury since
his assassination on February 28th. This will only happen after a positive
bilateral signal from Pakistan and Qatar, which led to setting the date for the
event in the first week of July, after negotiations suggested its feasibility.
This was revealed by a Gulf diplomatic source in a meeting with Lebanese
officials a few days before the official announcement of the ceremony, which
will take place from July 4th to 9th between Tehran and his shrine in Mashhad.
In conclusion, the sources stated that simply lamenting the situation in Lebanon
and expressing the prevailing pessimism is insufficient to convey their belief
that the upcoming "Washington 5" meeting this coming Tuesday might offer a
glimmer of hope for strengthening the ceasefire agreement and making it more
stable, regardless of how complex the circumstances and contradictory the
positions may be. And no matter how many sources there are for arranging the
rest of the required steps, especially determining the fate of the illegal
weapons, in the hope that President Berri will be an active partner in
implementing the Cabinet’s decisions regarding them, which he has confirmed more
than once that he has agreed to them, and this requires him to leave the circle
of doubt so that his position does not change when it is possible to implement
them, and he is the one who requested a comprehensive ceasefire as an entry
point to this step, whatever its fate may be, whether by returning it to Iran,
or by handing it over to the army and destroying what does not conform to its
weapons.
From the corpses of Baroque victims to its entire population, who are
monotheists and Christians. The wounds remain open because people don't talk
about them
Saud Abu Shibl/Facebook/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
After forty-eight years... we return to you, not with our bodies, but with our
names that are still suspended between the earth and the sky... We return with
the voice of mothers crying, and the voice of children who did not know why
their lives were cut short so early, and the voice of the elderly who fell while
thinking that the sanctity of age would protect them.
We return to you, we who were killed in our homes and fields... We are the ones
for whom no grave was written, and the last farewell prayer was not raised on
our soil, and no one knows to this day where our bones were thrown, nor under
what soil, and our remains are still awaiting a word of mercy.
We blame you... Yes, we blame all of you, our families and neighbors who are
Unitarian and Christian, with painful love, because we do not ask for the
impossible. We do not ask that you return life to us, but that you preserve for
us what remains of it: name, memory, and dignity.
We blame you... Yes, not because you have forgotten us in your hearts, for we
know that our names still reside in your memory... but because our pain has not
yet turned into an issue, nor has our blood turned into a cry, nor has our
absence turned into a collective promise to know where our bodies were placed.
We ask you...Aren't you tired of silence?
Didn't any of you ask: Where are they? Where were they buried? Where did the
bodies of those who yesterday were your neighbors, your families, and your blood
end up?
We heard those among you saying: Do not raise this issue, do not reopen old
wounds. But tell us... How can a wound be opened that has never been closed? How
can a pain be healed when its companions still have no grave, no remains, and no
stone bearing their names?
Not every talk about injury is an invitation to strife. There are wounds that
remain open because people do not talk about them, and because they have not
been treated at all, and silence means that the reconciliation established by
Patriarch Nasrallah Boutros Sfeir and leader Walid Jumblatt has not been
completed.
Know that ignoring and silence do not heal pain, but rather make it heavier,
leaving something incomplete in hearts, something broken in memory, and
something in dignity that has not yet been restored.
We do not ask you to quarrel with anyone, nor to take revenge on anyone, nor to
burden your children with the burdens of their fathers. We are the children of
Christ, who said while he was hanging on the cross: “Forgive them, Father, for
they do not know what they do.” You have forgiven, and we have forgiven, and we
only want justice in memory.
We want our people to know where we are if possible, and if that is not
possible... are you unable to find a stone? About a small monument? About a
place where your children and grandchildren stand and say: Here are the names of
those who were killed and whose graves are unknown.
Don't leave us missing twice...we are not asking for the impossible...
We only ask that we not remain missing twice: once when we were killed...and
once when years passed and no one asked where we were. Say our names... search
for us, and if you cannot find the location of our bodies, build a place for us
in the land of Barouk, or plant a cedar in our mountain.
Enriching and Strengthening Hezbollah
Hazem Saghieh/Asharq Al-Awsat/June 21, 2026 (Translated by Google from Arabic)
When Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that the war and the
Memorandum of Understanding were between America and Israel on one side, and
Iran and Hezbollah on the other, he was referring to the strengthening and
strengthening of the party.
The strengthening involves elevating it to the status of a state that wages war
and makes peace, instead of the state, which is supposed to be its own, assuming
this responsibility. The strengthening involves making the party's toxic
elements more widespread, poisonous, and destructive by preparing it for roles
that exceed its current capabilities. In truth, both strengthening and
strengthening require suitable conditions, most of which were provided, or at
least suggested, by the recent Memorandum of Understanding. Perhaps the first of
these conditions was a ceasefire that was not accompanied by an Israeli
withdrawal. Thus, with its setbacks and stumbles, it provides the fertile ground
for accomplishing tasks that have become extremely difficult after the party's
wartime defeats, such as military reconstruction and the search for ways and
means to secure funds, weapons, and ammunition, as well as training new recruits
destined for martyrdom. The second condition is precisely the continuation of
the Israeli occupation because, as before, it provides the political and
ideological justification for Hezbollah's resistance and its endless adherence
to arms. The third condition, for the umpteenth time, is the declaration of a
decisive victory presented as a final and irreversible achievement. This, in
addition to reinforcing the viability of the resistance, is another "sincere
promise" given to the party's base to convince them that their immense suffering
has not been in vain, and that this suffering is a prerequisite for further
victories, as demonstrated by continuous experience.
And beyond the chronic affliction of declaring victory, a fourth condition is
inseparable from the necessary prerequisites: the exaltation of Iran and its
role, for whoever has Iran on their side is bound to prevail. Amid the confusion
that has begun to affect the regional balance of power following the "Memorandum
of Understanding," and after what compelling arguments described as the decline
of American power, pronouncements have proliferated, breaking all records in
portraying Iran's extraordinary capabilities, from "creating a new international
order" to "changing the shape of the region and the world"...
Because Iran, in the words of Secretary-General Naim Qassem, “gave everything
and received nothing,” this reinforces the demand for it to regain its former
influence in Lebanon. The expansion of its capabilities, now supported by the
provisions of the “Memorandum of Understanding,” and the emphasis on its
selfless and altruistic nature, morally speaking, cannot go unpunished. This, of
course, has a vital financial function: the inclusion in the new “understanding”
of a special investment incentive fund worth $300 billion, in addition to the
release of frozen assets estimated at $24 billion, can be translated into
countless funds, weapons, ammunition, and salaries lavished on Hezbollah.
According to Western media reports, Iran’s image and the focus of attention
within it may undergo some change. Its power as a nationalist actor with a
sectarian undertone may surpass its image as an Islamic actor confronting the
“arrogant” West. Those who produce these reports base their predictions on the
Supreme Leader's weakened position compared to that of the Revolutionary Guard,
and the inevitable necessity, sooner or later, of some form of cooperation with
the United States dictated by the implementation of the memorandum. This is in
addition to the fact that nationalist appeal in Iran has surpassed the Islamic
appeal that the regime has exhausted. Whatever the case, this aligns with the
understanding with the "Great Satan," as well as with what observers noted
regarding the omission of any mention of Gaza, let alone Palestine. Gaza, it is
assumed, is the origin of the recent wars. Therefore, in a belated attempt to
avoid the embarrassment caused by this omission, an unnamed Iranian official was
quoted as saying that "Gaza is present in the spirit of the understanding." The
fifth and most important condition is the tarnishing of the Lebanese state's
reputation. Its symbols are suspect, its actions are blatant acts of treason,
and its statements, and those of its supporters, are heresies. All of these
individuals should be addressed with harsh words, using a vocabulary ranging
from defamation and threats to dictating what is permissible and impermissible.
There is also the assistance provided by the Iranian language: the
aforementioned description by Araqchi, and the desires and intentions hidden
behind it, along with similar official Iranian pronouncements, are aimed solely
at the Lebanese state, which is supposed to relinquish its authority over
decisions of war and peace to Hezbollah and Tehran. Meanwhile, the crisis in the
relationship between Hezbollah's supporters and the state must be deepened and
rendered into a complete impasse. The state not only betrays them and sells out
their cause, but also mistreats their displacement, residency, education, and
everything related to them. As for the state's supporters, they must be made to
doubt its intentions, since, in addition to failing to liberate, it is
attempting to prevent Iran from doing so. Taking advantage of the state's
precarious situation and the further narrowing of its options by the "Memorandum
of Understanding," Hezbollah and Iran are proposing to complement the "unity of
battlefields" of wartime with a "unity of paths" for peacetime. In this way,
Lebanon and its national aspirations are left hanging precariously, shrouded in
utter uncertainty. For only a state of lawlessness and indecision can Hezbollah
be sustained and enriched.
Selected Face Book & X tweets on 21 June/2026