Trump Hails Potential Cease-Fire as a New Era for Middle East
President Trump expressed hope on Wednesday that a cease-fire agreement with Iran could lead to a “golden age” for the Middle East.
Responding to the announcement of a two-week cease-fire, Trump stated on Truth Social, “This is an important day for world peace! Iran wants that to happen. They’ve had enough! So do other countries!”
He mentioned that the US was “helping increase traffic in the Strait of Hormuz,” adding that they were “loading all sorts of supplies” to ensure smooth operations.
Trump remarked, “This could be a golden age for the Middle East, just like we are experiencing in the United States!!!” He expressed confidence that reopening this crucial waterway, which transports about 20% of the world’s oil daily, would be successful.
“You’re going to see a lot of positive action. There’s going to be a lot of money to be made,” he continued, suggesting that Iran could begin rebuilding.
Describing Operation Epic Fury as a “complete and utter victory,” Trump noted that more than a month had passed since the US initiated a joint attack with Israeli forces. When asked about the operation, he affirmed, “One hundred percent. There’s no question about that.”
While discussing the potential for further military action, Trump didn’t completely dismiss the idea of strikes against power plants if the cease-fire doesn’t hold. His response was somewhat vague, saying, “We’ll have to take a look.”
The specific details of the cease-fire framework haven’t been disclosed, but Trump labeled the proposal as “workable,” and indicated it has been positively received by US allies.
The Iranian Embassy in India asserted that the US is “fundamentally committed” to lifting all sanctions against Iran and accommodating its control over the Strait of Hormuz. An embassy statement claimed, “You started the war, but Iran will create the conditions for its end.”
During a visit to the Gulf, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer remarked that the deal could provide a “moment of relief to the region and the world.” He emphasized the need for collaboration with partners to uphold the cease-fire and make it a lasting agreement.
French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also expressed their support for the agreement, with Merz noting, “The aim now is to negotiate a permanent end to the war.”
However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the cease-fire does not extend to Lebanon, as Israel continues to target Hezbollah positions. This came after Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif claimed that a comprehensive agreement had been reached for a cease-fire, including in Lebanon.
In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said they had paused operations against Iran while remaining prepared to respond defensively. They had previously conducted significant attacks targeting missile ranges in Iran to diminish their capabilities.
Nevertheless, the IDF continued targeted operations in Lebanon against Hezbollah, calling for the evacuation of residents in the southern city of Tire, where a recent strike resulted in four fatalities. Additional strikes were reported in Saida, approximately 45 miles from Beirut.
While Israel maintains its airstrikes in southern Lebanon, Hezbollah has momentarily halted attacks on northern Israel, with leaders expected to clarify their stance on the cease-fire soon.
