US President Donald Trump announced that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to a 10-day ceasefire, set to begin at midnight (5 p.m. ET) on Thursday.
The move aims to halt ongoing violence in Lebanon and create space for broader diplomatic efforts tied to the US-Iran war.
Trump announced the news on Truth Social adding that he had “excellent conversations” with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.
Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam welcomed the agreement on Thursday, noting that it had been a key demand since the start of the war.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also welcomed the announcement: “This is a relief, as this conflict has already claimed far too many lives,” she said via her X account.
A senior Hezbollah official said the group will respect the ceasefire if Israeli strikes stop.
The Israeli military campaign in Lebanon has remained a major sticking point in negotiations surrounding the US-Iran war. Officials signaled renewed momentum today, as Pakistan’s army chief met leaders in Tehran. The White House said it remains optimistic about progress, adding that a second round of talks could take place in Pakistan.
The Pentagon said US troops in the Middle East are rearming and prepared to resume combat operations if talks with Iran break down.
The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff warned that US forces could take action against ships attempting to bypass the blockade of Iranian ports, highlighting continued pressure on Tehran despite the temporary ceasefire.
