A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon has commenced, with US President Donald Trump urging for peace and hoping the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group “acts nicely” during this period. The truce follows an intense Israeli bombing campaign targeting what it described as Hezbollah-linked sites.
President Trump stated on Truth Social that it would be a “GREAT moment” for Hezbollah if they comply, emphasizing the need for “PEACE!” He also revealed having “excellent conversations” with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, planning to invite them to the White House for “meaningful talks.” Netanyahu confirmed his agreement to the ceasefire to “advance” peace efforts, calling it an opportunity for a “historic peace agreement.”
Hezbollah, which claimed 56 military operations in the 24 hours prior to the truce, deemed the ceasefire “urgently needed” but warned of a resumption of fighting if the deal collapses. The group insisted the truce must cover “all Lebanese territory” without allowing Israeli movement. The Israeli military reported striking 380 Hezbollah targets before the ceasefire and issued warnings for people in southern Lebanon to stay north of the Litani River, as its forces remain in the area.
Shortly after the ceasefire began, the Lebanese Army accused Israel of violations, citing “several Israeli attacks” and “intermittent shelling.” The Army also warned its citizens against celebratory firing of weapons into the air, which occurred after the truce went into effect. Trump, meanwhile, also commented on the US economy, insisting it was booming despite “our little diversion” to Iran, which he linked to surging oil prices and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
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