Trump Open to Talks with Hezbollah, Vows Strong Strike on Iranian Site in Lebanon

In a historic meeting at the White House, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with Hezbollah and promised a powerful strike on the secret Iranian site known as "Mount Makush" in Lebanon. The meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, the first Lebanese presidential visit to the White House in 17 years, took place shortly after the Israeli Defense Forces began a pilot withdrawal from southern Lebanon, allowing the Lebanese army to enter the area.

Trump stated that the U.S. believes many countries will soon join the Abraham Accords, which he described as a major economic success for the initial signatories. He emphasized Lebanon's important role in the region and pledged American support to help the country overcome its long history of hardship. Regarding the Iranian site, which Israel reportedly suspects houses centrifuges and uranium, Trump said, "It is very likely we will hit that area soon, and with great force."

When asked about a recent incident where Israeli forces fired warning shots at Lebanese soldiers who crossed a security zone, Trump said he had just learned about it and would investigate. The Israeli military confirmed that Lebanese forces breached the security zone near Al-Sharqiya, prompting warning shots.

Trump also addressed Iran's attacks on U.S. forces in Jordan, claiming Iran's capabilities have been significantly degraded and that the damage inflicted on Iran will take 20 to 25 years to recover from. He warned that if others perform U.S. duties inadequately, the results can be poor but did not specify whom he meant. On the possibility of Houthi forces blocking the Bab al-Mandeb Strait amid renewed conflict with Saudi Arabia, Trump assured that the U.S. would handle the situation as it has in the past.

President Aoun thanked Trump for the historic visit and the signing of a framework agreement aimed at ending hostility between Lebanon and Israel. He expressed hope that their shared vision of peace and stability would bring lasting security to Lebanon and the region.