Israel, Lebanon agree to 10-day ceasefire as US pushes wider deal

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to a 10-day ceasefire, with the truce set to begin at 5pm eastern time (2100 GMT).

He said the understanding followed discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, adding that both sides had agreed to halt hostilities in an effort to move towards peace.

The ceasefire is aimed at pausing fighting between Israel and the Iran-aligned group Hezbollah, which escalated after the broader conflict involving Iran expanded into Lebanon in early March.

The European Commission welcomed the announcement, with its president Ursula von der Leyen stating that the development could help reduce casualties following weeks of fighting.

The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths, particularly in Iran and Lebanon, since US and Israeli strikes on Iran began in late February, triggering retaliatory attacks and widening the confrontation.

Global markets have also been affected after Iran effectively shut the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting a key route for oil and gas supplies and contributing to increased energy prices.

Efforts to reach a broader agreement between Iran and the United States are ongoing, with a temporary two-week ceasefire currently in place. A security source said progress had been made on key issues, though Iranian officials indicated that disagreements remain over the country’s nuclear programme.

Pakistan has been involved in mediation efforts, with Chief of Defence Forces Asim Munir visiting Tehran to support negotiations following talks in Islamabad that concluded without a final agreement.

US officials said military options remain available if negotiations fail, while diplomatic channels continue to explore terms including sanctions relief, uranium restrictions and guarantees against further attacks.

Stock markets have risen on expectations of a potential resolution, though oil prices remain elevated, reflecting continued uncertainty over the ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.