After engaging in what he called “historic” negotiations, Donald Trump announced that the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon has been prolonged by three weeks. The decision was reached during a meeting in the Oval Office involving US, Israeli, and Lebanese officials. Trump emphasized that the US will collaborate with Lebanon to enhance its defense against Hezbollah.
The talks, which saw the participation of Vice-President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, were described by Trump as highly successful. He expressed his delight at being part of this significant meeting and expressed eagerness to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in the near future.
Taking to Truth Social after the meeting, Trump reiterated the US commitment to assisting Lebanon in safeguarding itself from Hezbollah. He also mentioned the extension of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon for three weeks. Trump anticipated the upcoming visits of Aoun and Netanyahu to the White House as the US strives for a more enduring peace agreement, emphasizing the importance of addressing the Hezbollah threat in Lebanon.
The discussions coincided with Lebanon’s prime minister accusing Israel of war crimes following the death of a journalist and the injury of another due to Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon. Amid these tensions, the IDF stated that its actions were in response to vehicles approaching Israeli troops from a Hezbollah military structure, posing an immediate threat.
The conflict has taken a toll on both sides, with the Lebanese health ministry reporting at least 2,294 fatalities in Lebanon from Israeli attacks, including women and children. Israeli officials highlighted the loss of civilians and soldiers in combat due to Hezbollah attacks in Lebanon.
These developments underscore the ongoing complexities in the region and the challenges in achieving lasting peace between Israel and Lebanon.