April 24, 2026
Trump announces Israel and Lebanon agree to extend ceasefire by three weeksextend ceasefire by three weeks
Israel and Lebanon held a second round of direct talks in Washington on April 23, hosted by US President Donald Trump, where Lebanese and Israeli ambassadors met to discuss extending a fragile 10-day ceasefire with Hezbollah set to expire soon. Trump announced that the two sides agreed to a three-week extension following the Oval Office meeting.
The extension aims to reduce ongoing violence in southern Lebanon, where Israeli strikes recently killed at least five people including a journalist, and supports preparations for broader negotiations on Israeli withdrawal, prisoner releases, and reconstruction. It marks a step toward de-escalating the conflict that began in March, though Hezbollah opposes the direct talks.
Lebanese Government
Lebanon pushed for a one-month ceasefire extension and measures to halt Israeli violations, such as village destruction in the south. Officials coordinated with leaders to ensure talks align with national interests, including Israeli troop withdrawal and displaced persons' return. They view direct negotiations as the path to ending the war despite Hezbollah's opposition.
Israeli Position
Israel participated in the talks amid recent strikes that killed Lebanese civilians and a journalist. The agreement to extend the ceasefire by three weeks followed US facilitation, addressing hurdles in prior arrangements. It builds on rare direct diplomacy after decades of hostility.
Hezbollah
The Iranian-backed group opposes the direct talks between Lebanon and Israel. It stated it will not abide by any agreements from these discussions. Hezbollah remains a factor in the ceasefire dynamics, with Trump noting considerations around the group.
- The 1983 May 17 Agreement was Israel's last major direct peace effort with Lebanon before these talks.
- Hezbollah, founded in 1982, emerged during Israel's invasion of Lebanon as an Iranian proxy.
- Yechiel Leiter served as U.S. ambassador under Trump before becoming Israel's envoy.
Israel-Hezbollah War in Lebanon
Israel has intensified airstrikes across southern Lebanon despite an ongoing ceasefire, killing dozens in a single day as of May 9 and targeting over 85 Hezbollah sites including weapons facilities and the commander of Hezbollah's elite Radwan Force.
