Trump Criticizes Israeli Strike on Beirut Amid Nearing Iran Peace Deal

President Donald Trump criticized an Israeli strike on Beirut, calling it ill-timed given the proximity to finalizing a framework deal between the United States and Iran aimed at ending their war. The strike, which Israel stated targeted Iran-backed Hezbollah militants in southern Beirut, occurred on Sunday, a day Trump had hoped would see the signing of the peace agreement.

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This morning’s attack on Beirut should not have happened, particularly on a special day when we are so close to a Peace Deal with Iran.

"This morning’s attack on Beirut should not have happened, particularly on a special day when we are so close to a Peace Deal with Iran," Trump posted on his Truth Social platform. He added, "We are very close to a Deal that will bring peace to the region, including to Lebanon, and all sides should stand down."

Iran reacted strongly to the strike, with its top joint military command stating "the finger (is) on the trigger" ready to retaliate. Iranian negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf also voiced criticism, suggesting the attack demonstrated the U.S. lacked the will or ability to uphold its commitments. This sentiment was echoed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has previously clashed with Trump over U.S. demands for Israel to curb military actions in Lebanon to facilitate the deal.

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We are very close to a Deal that will bring peace to the region, including to Lebanon, and all sides should stand down.

Despite the setback, Trump and mediators, including Pakistan, expressed optimism that the deal was "nearly over the line." A senior Iranian official indicated that under the draft terms, the U.S. would release $25 billion in frozen Iranian assets in exchange for Tehran agreeing not to produce or acquire nuclear weapons. Qatari negotiators were in Tehran on Sunday to finalize the agreement, though Iran had previously cast doubt on the Sunday signing, suggesting it could happen in the coming days.

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If you lack the will and ability to fulfil your commitments, speaking of continuing the path is not possible.