Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire: Trump Announces 3-Week Extension After High-Level White House Talks

United States President Donald Trump has announced a significant three-week extension of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. Following high-level discussions at the White House on Thursday, Trump agreed to extend the ongoing truce between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group. The President expressed optimism that this extension would pave the way for lasting peace in the region.

Diplomatic Breakthrough at the White House

" This marked the second such meeting within the past week. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump acknowledged the complexities of the situation, noting that they "have to take care of Hezbollah" as well, while he highlighted the historical significance of these talks, stating they represent the first direct diplomatic engagement between Israel and Lebanon in decades. The two neighboring nations have formally been in a state of war since the creation of Israel in 1948.

Ceasefire Violations and Strategic Extension

The initial ceasefire had come into effect last Friday, but both sides have reported multiple violations since then. The original 10-day truce was scheduled to expire on Monday, but it has now been extended by three weeks. In a social media post, Trump emphasized that the United States would work closely with Lebanon to ensure the country can protect itself from Hezbollah. This extension is seen as a critical window to stabilize the situation on the ground.

Planned Meetings with Netanyahu and Joseph Aoun

During his Oval Office address, Trump revealed plans to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in Washington within the next two weeks. Israeli Ambassador Yechiel Leiter expressed hope that under Trump's leadership, a formal and permanent peace could soon be established.

Lebanon's Demands and Israel's Security Stance

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has outlined specific conditions for the ongoing negotiations. Lebanon is demanding an end to the demolition of houses in villages and towns occupied by Israel. Their long-term goals include a total cessation of Israeli attacks, the full withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanese territory, the release of Lebanese prisoners held in Israel, the deployment of the Lebanese army along the border, and the commencement of reconstruction. Conversely, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar called on Lebanon to cooperate in disarming Hezbollah. Sa'ar stated that there are no major disputes with Lebanon other than minor border issues, identifying Hezbollah as the sole obstacle to peace and Lebanese sovereignty.