Pakistan, June 4 -- Hezbollah rejected a new Lebanon ceasefire proposal on Thursday, casting doubt on efforts to end regional fighting. The setback threatens diplomatic progress between Iran and the United States over a broader peace agreement. Civilians across Lebanon, Israel, and the wider Middle East could face prolonged instability if talks fail.

The rejection came after Washington helped broker an agreement between Israel and the Lebanese government. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem dismissed the proposal and said resistance operations would continue. His comments raised concerns about whether the ceasefire can take effect. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun had earlier said the truce could begin within 24 hours of approval by all parties....