'Enough is enough': Trump bans Israel's Lebanon strikes, seizes Iran's nuclear dust

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald J Trump on Friday, April 17, announced that Israel will halt further airstrikes in Lebanon, stating that the United States will take a lead role in addressing the situation involving Hezbollah.

The directive, shared through a series of Truth Social posts, marks a significant shift in US involvement in the region as broader negotiations tied to Iran continue.

Trump described the move as a “total halt” to Israeli bombing operations in Lebanon, adding that US forces would handle the situation in what he called an “appropriate manner.”

The announcement comes as the administration advances a proposed agreement with Iran centered on nuclear material and regional de-escalation.

Israel prohibited from further Lebanon strikes

“Israel will not be bombing Lebanon any longer,” Trump wrote, adding that such actions are “PROHIBITED” under the current US directive.

The statement signals a departure from previous US policy, where Israel maintained operational autonomy in cross-border actions involving Hezbollah.

US officials indicated that the decision is part of a broader effort to stabilize the region and maintain the current ceasefire conditions. The administration has framed the move as a step toward separating the Lebanon front from ongoing negotiations with Iran.

Trump also said the US would engage directly with the Lebanese government on security concerns related to Hezbollah.

B2 Bombers secure nuclear 'dust' extraction

The announcement coincides with ongoing discussions regarding Iran’s nuclear program.

Trump stated that the US would take possession of what he referred to as nuclear “dust,” describing material linked to Iran’s enrichment activities following a 47-day campaign that included B-2 bomber operations.

According to the president, the agreement involves the transfer of this material under US supervision, with no financial exchange.

“No money will exchange hands in any way, shape, or form,” Trump said, characterizing the arrangement as a security-focused measure.

Officials have not released detailed verification mechanisms but indicated that the extraction of nuclear-related material remains a central component of the negotiations tied to a proposed long-term freeze on Iran’s nuclear activities.

Administration aims to ease pressure while retaining leverage

The developments reflect a dual-track approach by the administration: enforcing de-escalation in Lebanon while advancing a nuclear framework with Iran. 

Officials say the strategy is intended to reduce simultaneous pressure points in the region while maintaining leverage through military and economic measures.

The White House has indicated that US forces and diplomatic channels will now play a more direct role in addressing Hezbollah-related concerns, though specific operational details have not been disclosed.

Trump said the broader “transaction” with Iran is nearing completion, with multiple components already agreed upon.

While no final deal has been formally announced, the administration maintains that progress has been made toward securing commitments on nuclear material and regional stability.