US President Donald Trump said Israel has agreed to reduce its military operations in Lebanon following his direct appeal to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, raising cautious hopes for regional de-escalation.
Speaking to NBC News, Trump said he asked Netanyahu to “low-key” the strikes, adding that reducing intensity was necessary to maintain stability. The remarks come just days after a US-Iran ceasefire was announced following weeks of intense conflict across the Middle East.
Despite the truce, Israeli forces carried out some of the heaviest attacks in Lebanon, killing hundreds and injuring over a thousand, according to local authorities. The escalation has sparked fears that the ceasefire could collapse before peace talks begin.
Netanyahu indicated readiness for negotiations with Lebanon, including discussions on disarming Hezbollah, while Lebanese officials stressed that a ceasefire must come first.
Iran also condemned the strikes, warning that continued attacks undermine diplomatic efforts. Meanwhile, global attention has shifted to upcoming US-Iran talks in Islamabad, seen as a critical opportunity to turn the fragile ceasefire into a lasting peace agreement.
Analysts caution that while diplomatic momentum exists, ongoing violence in Lebanon remains a serious threat to regional stability.

