Israel expands operations in Lebanon and captures strategic fortress

Israel has expanded its military operations in Lebanon, capturing a strategically important fortress. Iran has responded by warning it could suspend ongoing negotiations with the US. Trump claims to have resolved the situation, but according to Axios, he asked Netanyahu: "What the hell are you doing?!"

Israel's military operation in Lebanon has escalated significantly, prompting Tehran to warn it may halt ongoing negotiations with the United States. Donald Trump confirmed that he has resolved the situation, while sources cited by Axios claim he directly asked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: "What the hell are you doing?!"

Conflict escalation in Lebanon

The conflict intensified on 2 March when Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel's northern regions. On 17 April, the two sides reached a ten-day ceasefire, but it collapsed after just four days — sirens sounded again in northern Israel as Hezbollah drones entered Israeli airspace.

In response, Israel struck Beirut and its ground forces advanced in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah in turn continued its rocket fire. The culmination of the tense exchange saw Israel capture a strategically significant fortress, substantially shifting the balance of forces in the region.

Iran's warning and US response

Iran reacted sharply to Israel's actions, threatening to suspend negotiations with the United States. This is a significant signal, as diplomatic contacts between Tehran and Washington have been one of the few stabilising factors in the region.

Trump publicly claimed that he has engaged with the situation and spoken to all parties. However, Axios reported, citing sources, that the US president directly and emotionally asked Netanyahu what he was really planning. Critics note that such an approach reflects Washington's serious concern about the conflict widening.