Trump calls Aoun, reportedly tells him ceasefire within hours
President Joseph Aoun held a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday during which he thanked the U.S. leader for his "efforts" to secure a ceasefire with Israel, the Lebanese Presidency said.
"President Aoun reiterated his thanks for the efforts Trump is making to achieve a ceasefire in Lebanon and to secure lasting peace and stability as a prelude to implementing the peace process in the region," the statement said.
The call comes after Aoun rejected a U.S. request for a "direct call" with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to an official Lebanese source, and a day after Trump announced an expected call between the Lebanese and Israeli "leaders".
The Presidency said Trump voiced support for Aoun and Lebanon and stressed that he is "committed to fulfill the Lebanese request for a ceasefire as soon as possible."
Arab and Israeli media reports meanwhile said Trump told Aoun that "there will be a ceasefire within hours."
Source: Naharnet, Agence France Presse
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