Donald Trump announced that the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon has been prolonged by three weeks following his participation in what he described as groundbreaking discussions. The US president disclosed that this decision resulted from a meeting held in the Oval Office involving US, Israeli, and Lebanese officials, emphasizing the US commitment to assisting Lebanon in defending itself against Hezbollah.
Trump expressed satisfaction with the negotiations, which were also attended by Vice-President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, labeling them as highly successful. He expressed his pride in being part of this significant event and eagerly anticipates welcoming Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun for future discussions.
In a post on Truth Social after the meeting, Trump reiterated the US’s pledge to support Lebanon in safeguarding itself from Hezbollah and confirmed the extension of the ceasefire. He further mentioned the upcoming visits of Aoun and Netanyahu to the White House in the following weeks, highlighting the US’s efforts in fostering a lasting peace agreement while addressing concerns related to Hezbollah in Lebanon, in parallel to actions concerning Iran.
The talks coincide with Lebanon’s prime minister accusing Israel of war crimes following the death of a journalist and injury of another in Israeli air strikes in southern Lebanon. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the targeting of journalists, referring to it as potential war crimes.
The IDF, in response, stated that their actions were in response to vehicles approaching Israeli troops in a threatening manner, violating ceasefire terms. The conflict has resulted in substantial casualties on both sides, with the Lebanese health ministry reporting over 2,294 deaths in Israeli attacks in Lebanon, including numerous women and children. Israeli officials have also cited casualties on their side, with two civilians and 15 soldiers killed by Hezbollah attacks in Lebanon.
The latest developments underscore the delicate situation in the region, with efforts ongoing to navigate towards a sustainable peace agreement amidst escalating tensions and casualties.