Washington: US President Donald Trump has announced a historic 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, claiming the agreement followed what he described as “excellent” discussions with leaders of both nations.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he held talks with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, after which both sides agreed to temporarily halt hostilities.
“These two leaders have agreed that in order to achieve peace between their countries, they will formally begin a 10-day ceasefire at 5 P.M. EST,” Trump wrote.
Trump Says Ceasefire Will Begin Within Hours
According to the US President, the ceasefire is scheduled to begin within six hours of the announcement, marking what he described as a significant diplomatic breakthrough in the region.
Trump also claimed that the development would mark another addition to his conflict-resolution record.
“It has been my honor to solve nine wars across the world, and this will be my tenth, so let’s get it done,” he said.
First Direct Meeting in Decades
Trump stated that representatives from Israel and Lebanon met in Washington, DC for the first time in 34 years, signalling a rare diplomatic engagement between the two countries.
To oversee the implementation of the ceasefire and work toward longer-term stability, Trump said he has directed key US officials to support the peace process, including:
- JD Vance
- Marco Rubio
- Dan Caine
These officials have been tasked with ensuring that both sides move beyond the temporary ceasefire and toward a “lasting peace” agreement.
Push for Lasting Peace
While the ceasefire is limited to 10 days, Trump indicated that the broader goal is to use the pause in fighting as an opportunity to negotiate a more permanent settlement between the two nations.
Further confirmation from Israeli and Lebanese authorities on the ceasefire details is expected as diplomatic coordination continues.