WASHINGTON DC: US President Donald Trump has announced that the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon will be extended by three weeks following discussions at the White House.
However, he indicated that achieving a long-term peace agreement remains challenging and would require stronger backing from Washington, particularly in efforts related to disarming Hezbollah.
In remarks earlier to the BBC, Trump defended his approach toward Iran, stating that “whatever I’m doing, it seems to be working very well,” in response to questions about his previous threats against the country. Later, speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, he said he would not rush into any agreement with Iran, emphasizing a cautious approach.
Meanwhile, the US military reported that its forces had boarded a vessel carrying Iranian oil in the Indian Ocean. Trump also claimed that the United States has “total control” over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
In Iran, senior officials rejected Trump’s assertions of internal divisions, instead highlighting what they described as “iron unity” within the country’s leadership.
At the same time, Israel’s defence minister warned that military action against Iran could resume if approved by the United States, issuing a strong statement that Iran could be pushed “back to the dark ages” if conflict escalates.
(Inputs from BBC)
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