Ankara: US Vice President JD Vance acknowledged on Wednesday that there have been violations of a just-brokered cease-fire agreement with Iran but said overall momentum is moving in the right direction.

According to Anadolu Agency, Vance explained to reporters in Budapest, Hungary, that the inherent complexity of cease-fires often leads to immediate violations. He pointed out that shortly after the US President announced the cease-fire, a series of retaliatory missile launches occurred between Iran, Israel, and some Gulf Arab states. Despite these initial setbacks, Vance emphasized the US's commitment to halting the bombing activities by all parties involved, including its allies and Iran.

The positive outlook from the US came amidst a strong statement from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which threatened retaliation against Israel for any further attacks on Lebanon. This followed a significant missile barrage across Lebanon, targeting locations such as Beirut, shortly after the cease-fire was put in place.

The US maintains that the terms of the truce do not extend to Israel's military actions in Lebanon, contradicting claims by Pakistani mediators who assert that the cease-fire includes Lebanon. Despite ongoing Israeli strikes resulting in substantial casualties, Hezbollah has continued to honor the cease-fire agreement.

Vance addressed the contentious issue of Lebanon's inclusion in the cease-fire, labeling Iran's interpretation as a "reasonable misunderstanding." He assured that the US and its allies, including Israel, did not agree to include Lebanon in the cease-fire terms. Vance expressed optimism about the ongoing negotiations, stating that while challenges remain, he believes Iran will engage constructively.