US President Donald Trump held what officials described as a “tough phone call” with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, after which Israel agreed to begin direct ceasefire negotiations with Lebanon, according to international media reports.
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Citing sources, reports said the call between the two leaders on Thursday was unusually firm, focusing on the escalating conflict involving Lebanon. Immediately after the conversation, Israel announced that it would enter direct talks aimed at establishing a ceasefire with Beirut.
Officials familiar with the matter said Trump had warned that if Israel did not move forward with negotiations, Washington could proceed independently with a ceasefire announcement. This reportedly increased pressure on Netanyahu to agree to dialogue.
The development comes shortly after Trump announced a temporary two-week ceasefire arrangement involving Iran, amid rising regional tensions. US officials have also expressed concern that ongoing Israeli military actions could undermine broader diplomatic efforts in the region.
According to reports, Trump urged Netanyahu to reduce military operations against Hezbollah positions in Lebanon, particularly following a wave of Israeli strikes that reportedly resulted in significant casualties earlier in the week.
Israeli sources suggested that Netanyahu understood the diplomatic implications of refusing direct negotiations, especially given Washington’s active role in shaping ceasefire efforts. The prospect of a unilateral US announcement reportedly added urgency to Israel’s decision.
Following the call, Israel publicly confirmed its willingness to engage in direct ceasefire talks with Lebanon, marking a notable shift in its immediate diplomatic posture.
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Observers say the episode highlights Washington’s increasing involvement in managing regional escalation and underscores the influence of direct high-level communication between US and Israeli leadership during periods of conflict.