Netanyahu: Netanyahu accuses Hezbollah of ‘harming’ Lebanon peace effort, says Donald Trump is putting ‘strong pressure’ on Iran
netanyahu The charge late Friday said efforts were underway to achieve “historic peace” between Israel and Lebanon following a three-week ceasefire extension. Hezbollah Attempts to derail the process.In his first remarks after the ceasefire extension, Netanyahu said he had an “excellent conversation” with US President Donald Trump, crediting Washington’s continued pressure on Iran and close coordination with Israel.Netanyahu said, “I promised you that we would change the face of the Middle East and that’s what we are doing… They are putting very strong pressure on Iran economically and militarily. We are working in full cooperation.”
Ceasefire extended, tension continues
The comments come after Trump announced a three-week extension of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon following talks with senior officials from both sides.“They have agreed to an additional three weeks … no more shootings,” Trump said. He warned that Hezbollah remains a major concern.US Vice President JD Vance described the extension as a “major, historic moment”, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio said it would provide more time to work toward lasting peace.
Hezbollah rejects ceasefire, clashes continue
Despite the expansion, the ground reality remains tense. Hezbollah has described the ceasefire as “meaningless” due to continued Israeli military actions, Reuters reports.“It is clear to us that Hezbollah is trying to thwart this,” Netanyahu said. He said Israel would maintain “complete freedom of action” against threats.According to Reuters, even after the ceasefire took effect, Israeli attacks and Hezbollah responses continued in southern Lebanon. Lebanese officials have reported casualties in recent airstrikes, while Hezbollah also claimed to have shot down an Israeli drone.
delicate peace amidst the vast regional conflict
According to Reuters, the ceasefire has largely reduced hostilities but has not stopped intermittent violence, with Israeli forces maintaining a “buffer zone” inside southern Lebanon.Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s position on security, saying, “We attacked yesterday and we attacked today. “We are committed to restoring security to residents of the North.”The ceasefire in Lebanon comes alongside broader regional tensions related to the Iran conflict, complicating diplomatic efforts. While the US has expressed optimism about a potential breakthrough, ongoing clashes on the ground underline the fragility of the ceasefire.Trade accusations and military actions between the two sides continue, and prospects for a permanent settlement remain uncertain despite a temporary pause in the fighting.