Israel and Lebanon Extend Ceasefire for Another 45 Days

Israel and Lebanon have agreed to extend their ceasefire for another 45 days following talks in Washington. The US State Department announced the agreement, describing the talks between the two sides as very productive.

The ceasefire was initially declared by US President Donald Trump on 16 April following a sharp escalation in the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

This is the third round of negotiations since March, when Israel significantly stepped up air strikes on Lebanon following Hezbollah rocket attacks on Israeli territory. The conflict has also unfolded in parallel with the US-Israeli war against Iran.

Although the intensity of fighting has decreased since the April ceasefire, tensions remain in southern Lebanon. Israel has also expanded its ground operation in border areas in recent weeks. Further negotiations between the two sides are scheduled for early June.

(reuters, mja)