Washington: A Democratic lawmaker on Wednesday criticized ongoing violence in Lebanon and called on President Donald Trump to pressure Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to stop the bombardment there. “Netanyahu’s ongoing bombardment of Lebanon, which has killed civilians for weeks, threatens to plunge the region into even further chaos and unravel the ceasefire,” Rep. Jim McGovern said on US social media company X. His remarks came right after more than 250 people were killed during Israel’s strikes on Lebanon.

According to Anadolu Agency, the US and Iran announced a two-week truce on Tuesday aimed at paving the way for a final agreement to end a war launched by Washington and Tel Aviv against Tehran on Feb. 28, which has left thousands dead and wounded. Although the key mediator Pakistan said the truce includes Lebanon, both the US and Israel stated the ceasefire does not include Lebanon.

McGovern called on Trump to “stand up to Netanyahu.” He emphasized the importance of the President using his leverage to maintain the negotiated deal. “He needs to save the deal he negotiated. He has leverage. He should use it!” the lawmaker urged.

Israel has carried out airstrikes and a ground offensive in southern Lebanon since a cross-border attack by Hezbollah on March 2, despite a ceasefire that took effect in November 2024.