U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Thursday a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, aiming to de-escalate growing tensions in the Middle East. The truce is set to begin at 5 p.m. ET, according to the president.

The announcement followed direct conversations between Trump and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, as well as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, marking a significant diplomatic step toward stabilizing the region.

“These two leaders have agreed that, in order to achieve peace between their countries, they will formally begin a 10-day ceasefire,” Trump stated on Truth Social.

 First direct talks in decades

The ceasefire comes at a historic moment, as Israel and Lebanon held their first direct talks in decades earlier this week in Washington, D.C., opening a potential path for dialogue.

Israeli sources confirmed that Trump also spoke with Netanyahu on Thursday, while Lebanese officials acknowledged communication with President Aoun.

However, earlier reports indicated that Aoun had declined direct talks with Netanyahu, underscoring the fragile nature of diplomatic efforts.

A key move in a broader regional conflict

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, based in Lebanon, remains a central issue in wider negotiations involving the United States and Iran.

At the same time, Iranian officials are meeting in Tehran with Pakistan’s military leadership to exchange messages with Washington, as efforts continue toward a potential diplomatic agreement.

The White House expressed optimism about progress, although the Pentagon warned that U.S. troops in the Middle East are rearming and remain ready to resume combat operations if talks fail.

Military pressure remains

The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff also warned that the United States could use force against vessels attempting to bypass the naval blockade on Iranian ports.

In this volatile context, the ceasefire announced by Trump appears to be a critical measure to prevent further escalation in an already fragile region.