US President Donald Trump has announced that Israel and Hezbollah have agreed to stop fighting, raising hopes of a de-escalation in Lebanon after days of intense cross-border violence and fears of a wider regional conflict. However, reports of continued military activity have cast doubt on the durability of the proposed truce.
Trump said he held discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and communicated with Hezbollah through intermediaries. According to the US President, Netanyahu agreed to halt plans for a major military operation in Beirut, while Hezbollah committed to stopping attacks on Israel. Trump also claimed that Israeli troops heading toward the Lebanese capital had been turned back following his intervention.
The announcement came after one of the most serious escalations in Lebanon in recent years. Israeli forces had advanced deeper into Lebanese territory, while Hezbollah launched rockets and drones toward northern Israel. Earlier, Israel had warned of strikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs, a stronghold of the Iran-backed group, prompting residents to flee the area.
Meanwhile, reports emerged of tensions between Trump and Netanyahu over Israel’s military campaign in Lebanon. US media reports suggested Trump pressed the Israeli leader to avoid a major assault on Beirut, reflecting growing concern in Washington that the conflict could undermine wider peace efforts in the region.
Despite Trump’s declaration, uncertainty remains over whether a lasting ceasefire has actually been achieved. Israeli officials later indicated that military operations in southern Lebanon would continue if Hezbollah attacks persisted. Hezbollah has also not publicly confirmed a comprehensive ceasefire agreement. Reports from Lebanon suggested Israeli airstrikes continued in some areas even after the announcement.
Also Read: iOS 27 to supercharge Siri intelligence
