US President Donald Trump has announced a three-week extension of the Israel–Lebanon ceasefire following White House talks involving officials from both countries, but said he is in no rush to finalize a broader agreement with Iran as tensions across the Middle East continue to rise.
Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump said diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region were “working very well,” while stressing that any long-term deal with Iran would take time. “I don’t want to rush myself,” he told reporters when asked about negotiations involving Tehran.
The ceasefire extension comes as Washington pushes for broader regional de-escalation efforts, including discussions around curbing Hezbollah’s influence in Lebanon. However, analysts say a lasting peace deal remains complex, particularly due to Hezbollah’s military strength and its backing by Iran.
Trump also claimed the United States maintains “total control” over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route, amid ongoing tensions involving Iranian oil shipments. US forces reportedly intercepted a vessel carrying Iranian oil in the Indian Ocean as part of broader enforcement actions.
In Iran, officials have pushed back strongly against claims of internal division, insisting the country remains unified despite mounting pressure from the United States and Israel. Meanwhile, Israeli defence officials have signaled they are prepared to resume military operations if given approval, further heightening uncertainty.
Diplomatic efforts now appear focused on maintaining short-term calm while broader negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme, regional influence, and security arrangements remain unresolved.
