Mideast deal still on despite Israeli strikes killing three in Beirut — Trump
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- - US President Donald Trump stated that Israeli strikes in Beirut "should not have happened" but vowed a regional peace deal was imminent.
- Trump urged all sides to stand down, emphasizing that the exchange of fire between Israel and Hezbollah should not derail progress toward a pact.
- He called for an end to attacks from any party against Israel and reiterated his belief that a deal bringing peace to the region was close to being signed.
US President Donald Trump commented on recent Israeli strikes in Beirut, stating they "should not have happened" while simultaneously asserting that a significant regional peace deal is close to fruition. He urged all parties involved to de-escalate the situation.
We are very close to a Deal that will bring peace to the region, including to Lebanon, and all sides should stand down.
Trump conveyed his message via social media, declaring, "We are very close to a Deal that will bring peace to the region, including to Lebanon, and all sides should stand down." He expressed hope that this moment could mark the beginning of lasting peace, cautioning against actions that might jeopardize it. The president specifically referenced the Sunday morning attack on Beirut, calling it regrettable, especially given his anticipation of a signing ceremony. "This morning’s attack on Beirut should not have happened, particularly on a special day," Trump wrote.
This could be the beginning of a long and beautiful peace, Let’s not blow it!
Heads of Hezbollah fired at northern Israel, prompting the Israeli response. Trump acknowledged this exchange, stating it "should not disrupt" the ongoing efforts toward a peace agreement. However, he issued a clear directive: "There should be no more attacks by Israel anywhere in Lebanon, but there should also be no more attacks by any other party, including Hezbollah, against Israel."
This morning’s attack on Beirut should not have happened, particularly on a special day.
Trump, who has frequently declared that an agreement with Iran was nearly finalized, had previously suggested on Saturday that the framework accord was slated for signing on Sunday. While he did not confirm the signing would occur on that specific day, his remarks underscored the perceived proximity of a breakthrough aimed at stabilizing the Middle East.
There should be no more attacks by Israel anywhere in Lebanon, but there should also be no more attacks by any other party, including Hezbollah, against Israel.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.