Story perspectives

Trump Meets Lebanese President as Troops Enter Zawtar

7/24/2026

Summary

Lebanese Troops Advance

On July 21 2026, Lebanese troops entered Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, prompting Israeli forces to fire warning shots after 150 m, causing no injuries per Israel Defense Forces.
The Lebanese army warned the incident could jeopardize pilot-zone steps in the U.S.-brokered framework.
U.S. President Donald Trump met Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House on July 21 2026, with the State Department saying Lebanese units began security duties in Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, Froun and Srifa.

Summary

CentCom Strikes Hormuz

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told lawmakers the Iran war now costs $37.5 billion, about $8 billion more than previously reported.
U.S. Central Command began its 11th night of strikes at 2300 GMT to curb Iran’s threat to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Pentagon said Sgt. Angel S. Rampersad, 28, of Ozone Park, New York, is presumed dead after the Iranian attack on a Jordan base, raising U.S. combat deaths to three.

History

Historical Context

The 1982 Israeli invasion—codenamed Operation Peace for Galilee—sent roughly 60,000 troops into southern Lebanon, expelled the PLO and created a long-standing security zone that fostered Hezbollah’s rise. After Israel’s 2000 withdrawal, the border stayed volatile, and in July 2026 Lebanese forces entered Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, drawing Israeli fire and prompting President Donald Trump and Secretary Pete Hegseth to warn of Iran-related costs.

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Lebanese Troops Advance

On July 21 2026, Lebanese troops entered Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, prompting Israeli forces to fire warning shots after 150 m, causing no injuries per Israel Defense Forces.
The Lebanese army warned the incident could jeopardize pilot-zone steps in the U.S.-brokered framework.
U.S. President Donald Trump met Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House on July 21 2026, with the State Department saying Lebanese units began security duties in Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, Froun and Srifa.

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