U.S. President Donald Trump stated on the 1st through his social media site, “Truth Social,” that he had facilitated a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, a militant group aligned with Iran, and mentioned that discussions for a permanent peace deal with Iran were “progressing quickly.” As worries increased about the possible breakdown of talks—after a tentative agreement was reported last week, followed by delays and weekend confrontations between the U.S. and Iran—this declaration seemed intended to emphasize the continuation of diplomatic initiatives. Israeli media noted, “The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) delayed air strikes on Beirut shortly after Trump’s statement.”
Trump mentioned that day he had a “very productive conversation” with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating, “There will be no (Israeli) forces heading to Beirut, and any troops that were en route have already been recalled.” He added, “Similarly, through high-level representatives, I had a very positive call with Hezbollah, and they agreed that all hostilities will cease — That Israel will not attack them, and they will not attack Israel.” After Trump’s statements, Israeli media reported that the IDF had postponed airstrikes at the request of the United States.
Earlier, Netanyahu had authorized air strikes on Dahieh, a neighborhood mainly inhabited by Shia Muslims located south of Beirut. According to Iranian media, Iran’s negotiation team with the United States had stopped communicating in response to Israel’s assaults on Lebanon. Iran’s state-run television also issued a warning, stating, “If Israel does not stop its attacks on Lebanon, the chance for a ceasefire will disappear.” In this situation, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X (formerly Twitter), “It is evident that a ceasefire between Iran and the U.S. encompasses all areas, including Lebanon. Anyone who breaches it will be accountable for the outcomes,” urging both parties.
Amid the rising tensions, Trump seems to have stepped in to promote calm, seeking to avoid Israel-Hezbollah conflicts from interfering with talks with Iran, which had already prepared a draft peace agreement. During an NBC interview that day, Trump distanced himself from military action, stating that even if discussions with Iran fail, “It doesn’t mean we’ll start dropping bombs all over the place.” CENTCOM, responsible for the Middle East, also noted that the ceasefire was still in effect, even as they confirmed clashes with Iran. Trump had previously mentioned, “Iran is genuinely interested in negotiations, and a favorable deal will be made for the U.S. and our allies. Everything will eventually work out.” In a CNBC interview, he asserted, “Oil prices will drop significantly very soon, in the near future.”
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