SEE CAPTION FOR MORE INFORMATION / Attention editors: AFP covers the war in the Middle East through its extensive regional network, including bureaus in Tehran, Jerusalem, and several neighboring countries. Since the start of the conflict, journalists hav
A bulldozer removes the rubble from the main market place destroyed by the Israeli military in the southern city of Nabatieh on June 21, 2026. The first round of negotiations between the United States and Iran since the two sides signed a preliminary agreement to halt their war was due to begin in Switzerland on June 21, with the conflict in Lebanon threatening the deal. Lebanon was drawn into the Middle East war on March 2 when Tehran-backed militant group Hezbollah launched attacks on Israel to avenge the killing of the Iranian leader. Israel has responded with broad strikes across Lebanon and a ground offensive. (Photo by Abbas FAKIH / AFP) /