Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said the expansion of Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa region represents a dangerous and condemnable escalation.
He stressed that continued military activity undermines efforts aimed at securing a comprehensive ceasefire and ending the conflict.
Aoun Calls for Immediate Ceasefire
Aoun stated that developments on the ground will not prevent Lebanon from continuing diplomatic efforts to reach a full ceasefire as soon as possible.
He emphasized that establishing a comprehensive ceasefire must be the primary step before addressing other outstanding issues.
According to the Lebanese presidency, the president instructed the negotiating delegation not to show leniency regarding ceasefire demands.
He added that subsequent discussions should focus on:
– Israeli withdrawal
– Deployment of the Lebanese Army
– Return of detainees
– Security arrangements to stabilize the south
Hezbollah Accuses Israel of Violations
Hezbollah said Israel has never adhered to any ceasefire agreement.
In a statement issued by the Islamic Resistance operations room, the group described Israeli claims of compliance as false.
The statement alleged that Israel continued violations from November 2024 through April 2026 and beyond, including attacks on residential buildings and civilian infrastructure.
Hezbollah further claimed that Israeli officials had acknowledged the absence of an effective truce while operations continued in southern Lebanon.
The group said it would remain prepared to respond to any attack and declared that developments on the ground would determine the course of events in the coming days.
Trump Says He Can Prevent Israeli Attack
US President Donald Trump said he would be able to prevent Israel from attacking Lebanon.
He described his relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as good, while noting that Netanyahu sometimes needs to be kept “more rational.”
Trump added that without his intervention, Israel could have escalated further.
“I will be able to prevent Israel from attacking Lebanon. They respect me and do what I say,” Trump said.
Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts
The statements from Beirut, Hezbollah, and Washington highlight the fragile situation along the Lebanese-Israeli border.
International efforts are ongoing to stabilize the region and prevent further escalation.
Observers note that progress toward a lasting ceasefire will depend on:
– Mutual compliance with agreements
– Reduction of cross-border hostilities
– International guarantees
– Continued diplomatic engagement
Conclusion:
The current Lebanon escalation reflects a complex mix of military developments and diplomatic negotiations.
While President Aoun insists on a comprehensive ceasefire as a prerequisite for broader discussions, Hezbollah accuses Israel of repeated violations. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump claims he can restrain further escalation. The coming days may prove decisive in determining whether tensions ease or intensify.
