Washington: US President Donald Trump on Saturday hailed Israel as a “great ally” of the United States, praising its military resolve even as tensions continue to escalate across the Middle East.

“They are Courageous, Bold, Loyal, and Smart and, unlike others that have shown their true colors in a moment of conflict and stress, Israel fights hard, and knows how to WIN!” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post.

He added that “whether people like Israel or not, they have proven to be a GREAT Ally of the United States of America.”

Trump’s remarks came a day after he cautioned Israel against further escalation, saying it was “prohibited” from bombing Lebanon and that “enough is enough”, even as reports emerged of fresh ceasefire violations in southern Lebanon.

Meanwhile, tensions in the region deepened as Iran signalled it would continue restricting access to the Strait of Hormuz unless the United States lifts its naval blockade on Iranian ports.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said there had been “progress” in talks with Washington, but cautioned that a final agreement remained distant.

"We are still far from the final discussion," Ghalibaf said, adding, "If America does not lift the blockade, traffic in the Strait of Hormuz will definitely be limited."

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route that carries nearly a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas, had briefly reopened following a ceasefire linked to Israel’s conflict with Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon, before Tehran reversed its decision.

Trump, however, said “very good conversations” were underway with Iran but warned Tehran against attempting to “blackmail” the United States.

Separately, Iran’s supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei issued a strong message, stating that Iran's navy "stands ready" to defeat the United States.

A two-week ceasefire in the region is set to expire on Wednesday unless extended, with uncertainty continuing over whether a broader peace deal can be reached.