Trump Prohibits Israel From Striking Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Confusion

U.S. President Donald Trump has declared that Israel is “prohibited” from carrying out further airstrikes in Lebanon, a move that has sparked confusion and raised fresh questions about Washington’s stance on the fragile ceasefire in the region.

“Israel will not be bombing Lebanon any longer… Enough is enough!!!” Trump said, in remarks that reportedly caught Israeli officials off guard.

The statement unsettled Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his aides, who had been operating under ceasefire terms that still allowed Israel to respond to imminent threats.

Israeli officials were said to have sought urgent clarification from Washington after learning of the directive through media reports.

U.S. officials later indicated that the ceasefire agreement still permits Israel to act in self-defence against “planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks,” even as it limits offensive operations.

Trump, however, doubled down on his position, insisting Israel must halt further strikes.

Despite the ceasefire, tensions remain high. Lebanese state media reported a drone strike in southern Lebanon shortly after Trump’s comments, while Israeli sources accused Hezbollah of violating the truce.

Meanwhile, Iran signalled partial de-escalation, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announcing the reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping during the ceasefire period.

Trump welcomed the move but maintained that pressure on Tehran would continue, noting that restrictions on Iran-related maritime activity remain in place until broader agreements are finalised.

The Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for global oil supply, has seen renewed activity following the announcement, contributing to a drop in oil prices amid cautious optimism.

In Israel, authorities have begun easing wartime restrictions, though Netanyahu signalled that operations against Hezbollah are not yet over, warning that remaining security threats still need to be addressed.

The latest developments highlight the uncertainty surrounding the ceasefire, as shifting positions and ongoing incidents continue to test the durability of the agreement.