Newly appointed US envoy Morgan Ortagus emphasized the need for Lebanon’s new government to exclude Hezbollah, setting a firm stance against the group’s influence. Amid stalled government formation, Lebanon navigates a fragile ceasefire with Israel, extended to February 18. Tensions persist as Israel accuses Lebanon of slow troop deployment, while Beirut cites Israeli ceasefire violations, including recent airstrikes in Sidon.
Over a hundred Indian nationals were deported from the US on a costly military flight. The operation underscored the Trump administration's commitment to cracking down on illegal immigration, with each deportee's journey amounting to over $10,000 due to the high cost of military transport.