Israel massacred sleeping families in Lebanon after heavy southern losses

After heavy clashes in southern Lebanon, including reported casualties on both sides, Iran has decided to cancel planned US talks in Switzerland, according to regional media reports.

Lebanon’s al-Mayadeen broadcaster reported that the Iranian negotiating team will not travel to Switzerland for the talks scheduled to begin on Friday. Switzerland’s foreign ministry also confirmed that the meeting at the Bürgenstock resort has been cancelled. The White House said US Vice President JD Vance, who was expected to lead the US delegation, had postponed his trip.

The cancellation comes amid intense violence in southern Lebanon, where Israeli airstrikes reportedly hit residential areas in several towns, including al-Sharqiyah, Harouf, and Kfar Sir in the Nabatieh district. Lebanese officials said at least 20 civilians were killed and around 30 others injured in overnight strikes, which also destroyed homes and damaged civilian areas.

Earlier strikes had already caused additional deaths, according to Lebanese state media, making the night one of the deadliest since the conflict escalated on February 28. Reports say sleeping families were among those affected during the early morning attacks.

Meanwhile, Hezbollah said its fighters engaged Israeli forces in ground clashes in southern Lebanon, claiming to have destroyed Israeli tanks and repelled military advances. The group also reported attacks on Israeli positions using rockets and guided missiles. Israeli sources, however, reported casualties among their soldiers during the fighting, including both killed and wounded personnel.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog confirmed the deaths of soldiers and expressed sorrow over the losses, while Israeli media described the situation as a severe incident in southern Lebanon. Military evacuations were also reported during the clashes.

The violence comes shortly after the United States and Iran signed a 14-point memorandum of understanding in Islamabad on June 17, which calls for a ceasefire and respect for Lebanon’s sovereignty. Iranian officials have warned that continued Israeli strikes could violate the agreement.

Despite the deal, Israeli forces have said they will maintain their presence in southern Lebanon, and reports suggest ongoing military operations in the area.

International organizations and Lebanese officials have raised concerns over the escalation, with allegations of civilian targeting and warnings about violations of international law. UN observers also reported continued projectile activity in the region.

Lebanese political leaders have urged the international community to intervene and ensure the implementation of the ceasefire agreement to prevent further escalation.