In a Truth Social post, Donald Trump has criticised Israel for attacking the southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital Beirut earlier today, arguing that Washington and Tehran are “so close” to a peace deal.
Trump's Statement
Trump said there should be no more attacks on Lebanon, something Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu is very unlikely to accept. He also warned Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group, against striking across the border into Israel.
Trump said: “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. Israel has the right to defend itself against threats, but the attack it was responding to was very small and meaningless, nobody was hurt, injured, or killed, and should not disrupt this important process. We are very close to a Deal that will bring peace to the region, including to Lebanon, and all sides should stand down. 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 could be the beginning of a long and beautiful peace — Let’s not blow it!”
Context and Reactions
The attack on Beirut's southern suburbs, a Hezbollah stronghold, came amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran-backed groups. The US has been mediating a potential peace deal between Iran and Western powers, which Trump claims is close to completion. Critics note that Trump's comments may undermine Israel's security posture, while supporters argue he is prioritizing regional stability.
