Lebanon is working to secure the withdrawal of Israeli forces and resolve border disputes as a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon takes hold.
Trump Seeks Separate Cooperation with Lebanon
President Trump stated that the U.S. agreement with Iran does not apply to Lebanon, but the United States will “separately cooperate” with the country. This follows a decision on April 16th for a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, which Trump brokered with Lebanese President Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.
Lebanon Views Ceasefire as Path to Negotiation
Lebanese President Aoun described the 10-day ceasefire as “a gateway to progress in negotiations” with Israel, emphasizing the importance of not squandering the opportunity. He added that the Lebanese armed forces will play a crucial role after the withdrawal of Israeli troops, deploying to the border to ensure security for returning residents.
Hezbollah Expresses Cautious Engagement, Raises Concerns
Hezbollah parliamentarians accused the Lebanese government of entering a “very dangerous phase” by agreeing to direct talks with Israel. The “Loyalty to the Resistance” bloc, Hezbollah’s political wing, expressed “cautious engagement” with the ceasefire but insisted on a complete cessation of Israeli hostilities and limitations on the movement of Israeli forces in Lebanon, maintaining its stance of resisting Israel throughout Lebanon.
European Response to Trump’s Diplomacy
Analysis highlights a shift in European relations with Trump, with some leaders acting as “charmers” while others offer criticism. Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni is noted as an unexpected critic of Washington.
Israel Refuses Withdrawal, Aoun Pursues Lower-Level Diplomacy
Comments from the Lebanese president followed Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz’s statement that Israel will not withdraw from its positions in Lebanon. The New York Times reported that Aoun avoided a direct phone call with the Israeli prime minister before the ceasefire, as requested by Trump, opting for lower-level diplomatic contacts to strengthen his political influence and avoid the appearance of normalizing relations with Israel.
Challenges to a Lasting Peace
Transforming the 10-day truce into a lasting agreement will be a significant challenge. The Lebanese government, lacking direct control over Hezbollah, must address the issue of disarming the Iran-backed group, a non-negotiable point for Israel.
Hezbollah’s Opposition to Disarmament and Internal Stability Risks
There is no consensus within Lebanon on how, or even if, disarmament should be pursued. Hezbollah has long opposed disarmament, and attempts to force the issue could increase the risk of internal instability.
Lebanon’s Economic and Political Crisis
Lebanon, with a population of approximately 6 million, has been grappling with a deep economic and political crisis for years. The situation was exacerbated by the previous Israel-Hezbollah war in 2024. On March 2nd, Hezbollah attacked northern Israel, joining the conflict between Israel and the U.S. and Iran, prompting intensive Israeli airstrikes and a ground operation in southern Lebanon.
Casualty Figures from Israeli Attacks
The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported on Friday that at least 2294 people have been killed and 7544 injured in Israeli army attacks on Hezbollah since March 2nd. This is a preliminary count that does not include those trapped under rubble.