US President Trump Announces Final Stages of Peace Deal Amid Lebanon Violence

US President Warns Netanyahu of Consequences if Attacks Continue

A meeting between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took place on Monday, during which Trump expressed concerns about the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. The two leaders discussed a potential peace deal with Iran, with Trump stating that it was “in the final throes” of being finalized.

In recent days, Israel has launched attacks on Tyre in southern Lebanon, resulting in at least eight deaths and forcing thousands to flee. The Israeli military issued a forced displacement order for the entire city, including its Christian quarter, before launching its attack. Additionally, Israeli forces struck Iranian air defense systems and a petrochemical plant, while Iran retaliated by hitting a similar facility in Haifa and targeting two Israeli airbases.

Trump reportedly warned Netanyahu that if attacks continue, Israel would be on its own “very soon.” Netanyahu responded by stating that Israel has the right to self-defense and is exercising it as required. Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that forces will continue to fight Hezbollah and target Beirut’s southern suburbs in response to any strikes on northern Israel.

Iran has made clear that any deal with the US must include an end to fighting in Lebanon, warning that continued aggression would be met with “more severe and crushing measures.” The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported a total of 3,666 deaths and 11,321 injuries since March 2.

Source: Al Jazeera