Donald Trump announced the extension of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon for three weeks following what he described as significant negotiations. The decision was made after a meeting involving US, Israeli, and Lebanese officials at the Oval Office. Trump emphasized that the US will collaborate with Lebanon to enhance its defense against Hezbollah.
The talks, which included Vice-President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, were deemed successful by Trump. He expressed his pride in participating in what he called a momentous meeting and anticipates hosting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in the upcoming days.
In a post on Truth Social after the meeting, Trump reiterated the US commitment to assisting Lebanon in countering Hezbollah threats. He also mentioned that Aoun and Netanyahu will visit the White House in the near future as part of ongoing efforts to achieve a lasting peace agreement, especially considering the Hezbollah challenge in Lebanon and concurrent developments in Iran.
These discussions unfolded against the backdrop of Lebanon accusing Israel of war crimes following the death of a journalist and injury of another in Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the targeting of journalists, labeling it as war crimes.
The IDF, in response, identified the incident as a response to two vehicles approaching Israeli troops in a threatening manner. The IDF stated that the vehicles had crossed a ceasefire boundary, justifying their actions.
The toll from Israeli attacks in Lebanon since February 28 stands at 2,294, including a significant number of women and children. On the other side, Hezbollah attacks have resulted in casualties among Israeli civilians and soldiers in combat in Lebanon.
The situation continues to evolve, with both sides seeking resolution amidst escalating tensions and accusations.