Trump announces Israel-Lebanon 10-day ceasefire

April 16, 2026 / 9:37 PM

Sharjah 24 – AFP: US President Donald Trump announced that Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a ceasefire set to take effect within hours, following what he described as “excellent” calls with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.

Plan for truce and diplomatic engagement

Trump said the two sides agreed to begin a 10-day truce, adding that US officials, including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have been tasked with working toward a lasting peace. He also indicated plans to invite both leaders to the White House.

Ceasefire amid wider regional tensions

The ceasefire comes amid ongoing efforts to ease regional tensions linked to the broader conflict involving Iran. Lebanon was drawn into the war earlier this year after Hezbollah launched attacks on Israel, prompting Israeli strikes and a ground offensive in southern Lebanon that have caused heavy casualties and mass displacement.

Reactions from Lebanon and international community

Lebanese officials welcomed the truce as a key demand, while a Hezbollah representative said the group would cautiously adhere to it if Israel halts its attacks. International leaders, including European officials, also expressed support for the ceasefire.

Fighting continues ahead of truce

Despite the announcement, fighting continued on the ground until shortly before the truce, with ongoing clashes and Israeli strikes reported in southern Lebanon.