‘I hope Hezbollah acts nicely’: US President Trump after Israel-Lebanon ceasefire comes into effect

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump on Thursday (local time) expressed hope that Hezbollah would act responsibly and peacefully during the 10-day ceasefire with Israel, urging an end to hostilities and stressing the need for lasting peace in the region.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “I hope Hezbollah acts nicely and well during this important period of time. It will be an GREAT moment for them if they do. No more killing. Must finally have PEACE! Thank you for your attention to this matter. President DONALD J. TRUMP.”

The remarks come alongside ongoing diplomatic efforts led by the United States to stabilise the Israel-Lebanon border after a 10-day ceasefire was announced following intensive negotiations involving Washington, Tel Aviv, and Beirut.

Earlier, Trump described the developments as a potential breakthrough, saying discussions between the Israeli and Lebanese leadership could mark a historic shift.

“It’s very exciting. With Lebanon, it’s very exciting. I think we’re going to have a deal. We’re going to have a meeting first time in 44 years and Lebanon will be meeting with Israel and they’re probably going to do it at the White House,” he said, referring to talks involving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.

He added that the ceasefire arrangement would also involve Hezbollah. “They’re going to be having a ceasefire and that’ll include Hezbollah…” Trump said. On the timeline for negotiations, the US President indicated that engagement could move quickly. “Over the next week or two,” he said.

Trump also expressed optimism about broader alignment among parties involved in the conflict. “I think we will have an agreement between Lebanon, and they’re going to take care of Hezbollah,” he said.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday said Israeli forces would continue holding positions in southern Lebanon during the ceasefire period, insisting that security considerations require a continued military presence. “We will remain in a 10-kilometre security zone, which will allow us to prevent infiltration into communities and anti-tank missile fire,” Netanyahu said, adding, “That is where we will remain. We are not leaving.”

Netanyahu also reiterated that Israel’s objectives include the “disarmament of Hezbollah” and a “sustainable peace agreement – from a position of strength.”

Meanwhile, reports from Lebanon suggested continued hostilities despite the ceasefire. According to Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA), Israeli artillery struck areas in southern Lebanon shortly after the truce took effect, including the towns of Khiam and Dibbine, alongside machinegun fire and aerial surveillance activity.

The Israeli military said it remains on high alert along the border even as the ceasefire is in place. Despite the tensions, celebrations were reported in parts of Beirut, with fireworks and gunfire marking the start of the ceasefire. (ANI)