Israel and Lebanon Agree 10-Day Ceasefire as Trump Announces Breakthrough
US President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a 10-day ceasefire, raising hopes for a broader de-escalation in the Middle East conflict that has sent global energy prices soaring and disrupted supply chains worldwide.
The ceasefire, which was set to begin on Thursday, came after weeks of intense diplomatic activity involving multiple mediators. However, questions remain over whether Hezbollah was fully consulted in the agreement, and UN experts have continued to call for a suspension of arms transfers to Israel.
Key Developments
An Israeli minister confirmed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would speak with the Lebanese president later on Thursday to discuss the terms of the ceasefire. Despite the announcement, reports emerged of continued Israeli activity in Lebanon, raising concerns about the durability of the agreement.
Separately, a Pakistani mediator has reportedly made progress on "sticky issues" in ongoing talks between the US and Iran, though Iran's nuclear programme remains a major stumbling block. US President Trump has expressed optimism about a deal but has also threatened to increase economic pressure on Tehran.
Background
The conflict has resulted in over 2,000 deaths and 1.2 million displaced people in Lebanon. The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran has sent oil prices surging, with Brent crude trading near $99 per barrel, causing significant economic disruption across Europe and the UK.
The UK and France have been leading diplomatic efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer calling for de-escalation and stating that the UK will not be drawn into direct military involvement.
Why It Matters
A lasting ceasefire in Lebanon could be a first step towards broader regional de-escalation and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which would provide significant relief to global energy markets. The UN has warned that the conflict could push 32 million people into poverty due to rising food and energy costs.
What's Next
International observers will be watching closely to see whether the 10-day ceasefire holds and whether it can be extended into a more permanent arrangement. Diplomatic efforts to resolve the broader Iran conflict are expected to intensify in the coming days.
Full coverage available at Associated Press.
