Trump says Hezbollah should ‘act nicely’ during ceasefire, claims Iran deal ‘very close’

US President Donald Trump has asked Hezbollah to respect a ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel, saying he hoped the group would “act nicely” during the truce and that “peace” could be achieved.

“I hope Hezbollah acts nicely and well during this important period of time. It will be a great moment for them if they do. No more killing. Must finally have peace,” Trump said on his Truth Social platform.

Speaking separately, Trump expressed optimism that a broader agreement with Iran could be reached soon, saying discussions were progressing and a deal remained within reach.

“We’re going to see what happens, but I think we’re very close to making a deal with Iran,” he told reporters, adding that a future meeting between US and Iranian officials could take place as early as the weekend.

He also suggested that an extension of a temporary ceasefire framework might not be necessary if a final understanding is reached.

Later, while in Las Vegas, Trump said the Iran-related conflict “should be ending pretty soon.”

The comments come as Washington’s handling of the conflict faces domestic political scrutiny ahead of upcoming US elections, while tensions in the Middle East continue to affect global markets.

Separately, Reuters reported quoted sources involved in backchannel diplomacy as saying progress had been made in US-Iran contacts, with discussions moving toward a preliminary understanding followed by a broader agreement expected within 60 days, though no formal deal has been announced.

Market sentiment improved on hopes of de-escalation, with oil prices easing in early trade and Asian equities extending gains on expectations of reduced geopolitical risk, even as key shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz remain disrupted.

France and Britain are set to chair a meeting of around 40 countries on Friday aimed at discussing steps to ensure maritime security and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz once conditions permit.