Daijiworld Media Network – Washington

Washington, Apr 16: US President Donald Trump on Thursday announced that Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a 10-day ceasefire, signalling a rare diplomatic breakthrough after weeks of escalating border tensions.

The announcement followed what Trump described as “excellent conversations” with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the ceasefire would come into effect at 5 PM EST (3:30 AM IST), calling it a first step towards a broader peace process. However, there has been no immediate confirmation from Israel or the Iran-backed group Hezbollah, which has been directly involved in the conflict.

Trump also revealed that officials from both countries held talks in Washington earlier this week—the first such engagement in over three decades—alongside US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

He added that Vice President JD Vance and senior US officials, including the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, have been tasked with working towards a more lasting resolution.

The US President further indicated plans to invite Netanyahu and Aoun to the White House for what could be the first meaningful talks between the two nations since 1983.

Tensions between Israel and Lebanon have remained high for decades, with the latest escalation triggered on March 2 when Hezbollah launched rockets and drones towards northern Israel. In retaliation, Israel carried out strikes on targets in Lebanon, including suburbs of Beirut, and issued evacuation orders in several regions.

If implemented, the ceasefire could provide a temporary halt to hostilities and open the door for renewed diplomatic engagement in the region.