US Bars Israel from Further Strikes on Lebanon
US President Donald Trump said Washington has barred Israel from continuing its strikes on Lebanon, urging an immediate halt to the attacks. In a social media post, he stressed that any potential US agreement with Iran is unrelated to developments in Lebanon.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not immediately respond. Earlier, he said Israeli forces would remain in southern Lebanon because of ongoing security threats, particularly the risk of rocket and drone attacks.
A US-backed ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect on Thursday evening. The fighting began in early March after Hezbollah launched attacks on northern Israel, prompting an Israeli offensive. Lebanese authorities say the conflict has claimed around 2,000 lives.
Trump said the US naval blockade of Iran remains in place. Tehran has announced the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz during the 10-day ceasefire. According to Trump, Iran has agreed not to use the Strait as a tool of coercion.