US President Trump Announces 10-Day Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Lebanon
US President Donald Trump has announced a 10-day ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, effective from 17:00 EST on 16 April. The ceasefire does not mention Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group in Lebanon, but Trump urged them to abide by the truce. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun have been invited to the White House for further discussions on the ceasefire terms.
The 10-day ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon can be extended by mutual agreement if negotiations show progress. The ceasefire is a gesture of goodwill by Israel to facilitate negotiations for a permanent security and peace agreement between the two parties. Both Israeli and Lebanese leaders have welcomed the truce, with hopes for a historic peace agreement and the return of displaced individuals to their homes.
Hezbollah has signaled willingness to participate in the ceasefire but insists on a comprehensive halt to attacks across Lebanon and no freedom of movement for Israeli forces. Iran's foreign ministry expressed solidarity with Lebanon, while the UN Secretary General and European leaders commended the ceasefire and called for respect for international law. Despite the agreement, Israeli troops will maintain a security zone in southern Lebanon to prevent invasion threats.
The ceasefire announcement followed direct talks between Israel and Lebanon in Washington aimed at easing the conflict. Netanyahu welcomed the truce but emphasized maintaining a security buffer zone in southern Lebanon. The ceasefire deal has taken Israel by surprise, with reports of minimal concessions made on the ground. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has resulted in casualties and destruction in both countries, with ongoing exchanges of fire despite calls for cessation.