US President Donald Trump declared on Friday that Israel is prohibited from carrying out further military strikes against Lebanon. This statement reveals an increasingly strict stance from the United States, particularly as diplomatic efforts with Iran gain momentum and the Strait of Hormuz reopens for global shipping.

In a social media post, Trump stated, “Israel will not be bombing Lebanon any longer. They are prohibited from doing so by the USA. Enough is enough!!!” This declaration underscores Washington’s commitment to enforcing what remains a fragile ceasefire between the two nations.

This announcement followed the implementation of a US-backed truce aimed at stopping weeks of intense conflict which commenced on March 2. The fighting was initiated when Hezbollah launched rockets into northern Israel, prompting significant military retaliation from Israel which reportedly resulted in approximately 2,000 casualties in Lebanon.

Responses from Israeli Leadership

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not directly address Trump’s warning regarding the military actions but maintained that Israeli forces would continue their presence in southern Lebanon. Netanyahu cited the rationale of countering “immediate threats” such as potential rocket and drone attacks.

The changing regional conditions have become more complicated, particularly with Iran announcing earlier on the same day the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping during this ceasefire. This artery is critical, handling nearly 20 per cent of the world’s energy supplies, and its reopening could alleviate some pressure on global markets.

Despite the reopening of the Strait, Trump emphasised that the US naval blockade targeting Iran would persist. He wrote on Truth Social, “The naval blockade will remain in full force until our transaction with Iran is 100 per cent complete,” indicating continued American control over maritime access associated with Iran.

Ongoing Diplomatic Negotiations with Iran

Trump further clarified that the ongoing negotiations with Iran are independent of the situation in Lebanon. He asserted, “This deal is not tied, in any way, to Lebanon,” and indicated separately that the United States would manage its dealings with Hezbollah independently. This signifies a nuanced approach by the US in addressing multiple facets of Middle Eastern geopolitics.

Expressing hope for diplomatic resolution, Trump suggested that an agreement with Iran could be reached “soon,” as he noted that most of the contentious issues have already been negotiated. This raised expectations for a potential second round of discussions in the near future.

Amidst these developments, Trump reiterated US commitments to controlling nuclear materials linked to the conflict, asserting that “no money will exchange hands.” The ultimate aim remains to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons capability, which has been a focal point of US foreign policy in the region.

In a pointed comment, Trump also dismissed an offer from NATO for assistance, criticising the alliance as “useless when needed” and labeling it a “paper tiger.” In contrast, he expressed gratitude towards nations such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar for their support during the unfolding situation.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share