Trump urges Israel and Iran to avoid escalation as ceasefire deal nears

Dubai/Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump has warned Israel and Iran against further escalation, urging both sides not to “blow it” as efforts intensify to finalise a ceasefire agreement.Trump’s remarks came after an Israeli strike on Beirut’s southern suburbs, targeting what Israel said were Hezbollah positions, raised concerns that ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran could be derailed.“This morning’s attack on Beirut should not have happened, particularly on a special day when we are so close to a peace deal with Iran,” Trump said in a post, adding: “We are very close to a deal that will bring peace to the region, including to Lebanon, and all sides should stand down.”Tensions threaten negotiationsThe Israeli strike followed reports that Hezbollah had launched projectiles towards northern Israel, with Israeli forces responding by targeting positions in Beirut. According to Lebanese civil defence, the attack resulted in casualties.Iranian officials criticised the strike, arguing that it raised doubts about Washington’s ability to follow through on commitments in negotiations. Iranian negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said the developments called into question the credibility of the process.Deal ‘close’ despite uncertaintyDespite the escalation, U.S. officials and mediators, including Pakistan, indicated that a framework agreement could be signed soon. A source involved in the talks said negotiations were “nearly over the line,” although Tehran signalled that key aspects were still under review.Draft terms under discussion include the release of billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets and a potential easing of sanctions on oil exports, in exchange for commitments from Iran related to its nuclear programme and regional security measures.Calls for restraintTrump also emphasised that no further attacks should take place in Lebanon, stating that Israel should halt operations while calling on Hezbollah to cease its actions against Israel.“There should be no more attacks by Israel anywhere in Lebanon, but there should also be no more attacks by any other party, including Hezbollah,” he said.Uncertain timelineWhile momentum towards an agreement appears to be building, uncertainty persists over the timeline and final terms. Iranian officials said a decision had not yet been made, with political, legal and technical aspects still under consideration.The situation remains fluid as diplomatic efforts continue alongside ongoing military tensions, highlighting the challenges of securing a lasting ceasefire in the region.