U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Israel and Lebanon have agreed to extend their ceasefire by three weeks following high-level talks at the White House.
The extension follows an initial 10-day ceasefire that was set to expire earlier this week. Trump described the meeting between the Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors as productive, noting that discussions “went very well.”
The United States, represented by senior officials including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, reiterated its commitment to supporting Lebanon’s security.
Trump also expressed hope for upcoming in-person meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to further advance peace efforts.
The talks are seen as a significant step forward for two nations that have no formal diplomatic relations and have technically remained at war since 1948.
Future negotiations are expected to focus on halting Israeli attacks, withdrawing Israeli troops from southern Lebanon, releasing prisoners, deploying Lebanese forces along the border, and initiating reconstruction efforts.
However, tensions remain high. Hezbollah has rejected the talks, stating it will not adhere to any agreements reached.
The latest conflict began after Hezbollah launched rockets into northern Israel, prompting a large-scale Israeli military response, including airstrikes and a ground offensive in southern Lebanon.
Despite the ceasefire, violations have been reported on both sides, underscoring the fragile nature of the agreement as diplomatic efforts continue.
