Trump criticizes Israel's Beirut attack, calls for peace process protection

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly criticized Israel's recent attack on Beirut, urging all parties to exercise restraint. In a social media post, Trump described the strike as "very small and meaningless," particularly noting its occurrence on a day when proximity to a peace agreement with Iran was highlighted.

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This morning's attack on Beirut should not have happened, especially on a special day when we are so close to a peace agreement with Iran.

While acknowledging Israel's right to self-defense, Trump emphasized that the retaliatory strike should not jeopardize the ongoing peace process. He stated, "Israel has the right to defend itself against threats, but the retaliatory strike was very small and meaningless... and this should not disrupt this important process."

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Israel has the right to defend itself against threats, but the retaliatory strike was very small and meaningless, nobody was hurt, damaged, or died and this should not disrupt this important process.

Trump called for de-escalation, urging both Israel and groups like Hezbollah to refrain from further attacks. "We are very close to an agreement that will bring peace to the region, including Lebanon, and all parties should step back," he wrote. He specifically advised Israel against further attacks in Lebanon and cautioned any party, including Hezbollah, against retaliating against Israel.

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We are very close to an agreement that will bring peace to the region, including Lebanon, and all parties should step back.

The former president concluded by expressing hope that the current situation could lead to a "long and beautiful peace," imploring all sides not to "ruin it." The article notes that Israel had launched airstrikes on Beirut's Dahiye district and southern Lebanon, resulting in at least eight fatalities.

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Israel should not carry out any further attacks anywhere in Lebanon.