Former US President Donald Trump claimed on Monday that Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah have agreed to a cessation of hostilities, a statement that was quickly met with skepticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Trump's Post on Social Media
In a post on his social media platform, Trump wrote that he had a conversation with Netanyahu, urging him not to launch a major raid into Beirut, Lebanon. He further asserted that both sides had agreed to stop fighting, though he provided no details on the terms or timing of any such agreement.
Netanyahu's Response
Netanyahu's office later issued a statement casting doubt on Trump's claims. The Prime Minister emphasized that Israel would continue to take necessary actions to defend its security and that no formal ceasefire had been reached with Hezbollah. The conflicting statements have created confusion over the status of the conflict.
Background of the Conflict
Israel and Hezbollah have been engaged in cross-border hostilities for several weeks, with tensions escalating after a series of attacks and retaliatory strikes. The United States and other international actors have been pushing for a de-escalation to prevent a wider regional war.
Trump's intervention comes as he remains a influential figure in US politics, though his claims often stir controversy. The former president has previously claimed credit for negotiating deals in the Middle East, including the Abraham Accords.
International Reactions
The international community has reacted cautiously to Trump's announcement. White House officials stated they were not aware of any such agreement and reiterated support for diplomatic efforts led by the Biden administration. The United Nations called for restraint and urged both parties to engage in meaningful dialogue.
As of now, there has been no official confirmation from Hezbollah or the Lebanese government regarding a ceasefire. The situation remains fluid, with reports of sporadic clashes continuing along the border.
