Khamenei's Elimination Reorders Middle East as Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire Takes Hold

A U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect following Operation Epic Fury, which eliminated Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in late February 2026. The campaign degraded Iran's ability to coordinate regional proxy networks. Hezbollah must now fully disarm and withdraw beyond the Litani River while the IDF withdraws within 60 days, reflecting the altered balance of power. The arrangement, monitored by Washington and co-brokered with France, extends to February 2025 and preserves Israel's self-defense rights.