Israel and Lebanon Agree to 10-Day Ceasefire, says Trump; US and Iran Move Closer to Peace Deal

US President Donald Trump has announced that Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a 10-day ceasefire with effect from late Thursday night 2:30 AM (IST).

Posting on Truth Social, Trump stated that he held discussions with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, following which this agreement was reached.

However, there is no mention of Hezbollah in Trump's statement. This is the very Iran-backed militant organization with which Israel is constantly in conflict.

Trump further mentioned that he would invite Netanyahu and Joseph Aoun to Washington for talks. Earlier this week, direct negotiations—the first between the two nations in 34 years—took place in Washington, attended by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Trump stated that he has instructed Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Rubio, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs General Dan Kane to work alongside both nations toward ensuring lasting peace.

Earlier, the Lebanese President thanked Trump during a phone conversation for his efforts regarding the ceasefire.

Lebanese Prime Minister Welcomes Ceasefire

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has welcomed the temporary ceasefire agreement with Israel. He stated that Lebanon had been demanding this since the very beginning of the war.

He remarked, "It is hoped that this agreement will provide those displaced by the conflict with the opportunity to return to their homes."

Prime Minister Salam also commended the international efforts undertaken to achieve the ceasefire.

US and Iran Move Closer to Peace Deal

The United States and Iran are nearing an agreement ahead of the ceasefire scheduled to expire on April 21. According to U.S. media, negotiations between the two sides have progressed, although some differences still remain.

Meanwhile, a crucial meeting is set to take place in Tehran between Iranian officials and Pakistan's Army Chief, Asim Munir. Munir has already arrived in Iran and met with Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, carrying a message from the United States.

Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey are playing the role of mediators. On the other hand, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance—along with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner—is sharing details regarding the negotiations and draft proposals. According to officials, the ceasefire could be extended to facilitate the deal, although the United States has not yet given its formal consent.

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