US President Donald Trump has stated that the Israeli air strikes on Beirut “should not have happened.” His comments were made on June 14, following attacks that he claims could hinder ongoing peace negotiations with Iran. Trump expressed concerns about the potential for increased tensions in the region, which he believes is on the verge of achieving a significant peace accord.

In a post shared on Truth Social, Trump highlighted the importance of restraint from all involved parties. He remarked, “This morning’s attack on Beirut should not have happened,” especially given the proximity to a potential peace agreement with Iran. The President underscored that while Israel has the right to defend itself, the recent threats it faced were minimal and had not resulted in casualties.

Trump further emphasised that hostilities could undermine the diplomatic efforts under way to secure peace in the region. He stated, “We are very close to a Deal that will bring peace to the region, including to Lebanon, and all sides should stand down.” He urged both Israel and Hezbollah to refrain from any additional attacks against one another.

Details of the Israeli Operations

The context of Trump’s statements follows a recent strike conducted by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on a Hezbollah command centre in the Dahieh area of Beirut. This operation came in response to the launching of aerial targets by Hezbollah towards Israeli territory earlier on the same day. The IDF characterised the action as a “precise strike” aimed at halting threats to Israeli civilians and soldiers stationed in southern Lebanon.

In the wake of the Israeli military action, Hezbollah announced that it had targeted an assembly of Israeli soldiers in the southern Lebanese town of Qantara using a drone strike. This exchange of military actions underscores the ongoing tensions between these parties, each attempting to assert their military capacities.

Despite Trump’s disapproval of the Israeli strikes, it has been reported that Israel informed US authorities prior to the operation. An Israeli source revealed that officials were aware of the risk that this strike could elicit a ballistic missile response from Iran, thereby increasing the overall precariousness of the situation.

Expectations for a Peace Agreement

On June 13, Trump indicated that a peace deal with Iran was anticipated to be signed imminently, stating it would act as a safeguard to prevent nuclear proliferation and ensure that Iran does not develop nuclear weapons. He expressed optimism that this agreement could pave the way for stability within the region.

In his remarks, Trump mentioned that following the signing of the deal, the Strait of Hormuz would “OPEN TO ALL.” This statement highlights the economic implications expected to follow the agreement, particularly concerning international maritime navigation.

The Israeli leadership is reportedly conducting continuous assessments to gauge the evolving situation and anticipate potential retaliatory actions. IDF Chief of the General Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir has been actively briefing senior commanders as they prepare for possible incoming threats.

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