Lebanon, Israel ceasefire extended by 45 days
Lebanon and Israel on Friday extended a ceasefire for 45 days, despite a new flareup in violence, the U.S. State Department said after mediating talks.
"The April 16 cessation of hostilities will be extended by 45 days to enable further progress," State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said.
He said that the State Department would hold negotiations aimed at reaching a permanent political agreement on June 2 and 3, and that the Pentagon would bring together delegations from the countries' militaries on May 29.
"We hope these discussions will advance lasting peace between the two countries, full recognition of each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and establishing genuine security along their shared border," Pigott said.
Israel’s ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter said the talks were frank and constructive. “There will be ups and downs, but the potential for success is great,” he said in a social media post. “What will be paramount throughout negotiations is the security of our citizens and our soldiers.”
The ceasefire, already extended, had been due to expire on Sunday.
The United States, Israel and Lebanon consider the ceasefire in effect despite continued violence, with Israel pounding targets in Lebanon again during the talks.
Source: Agence France Presse
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