Trump announces fresh ceasefire extension between Lebanon and Israel following Oval Office meeting

The fragile ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel has been extended by three weeks following high-level talks at the White House, in a move aimed at preventing a renewed escalation in one of the Middle East’s most volatile flashpoints.

US President Donald Trump announced the extension after hosting Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors in the Oval Office, describing the discussions as productive and expressing hope that the pause in hostilities could pave the way for broader peace negotiations.

The original truce, which began earlier in April as part of US-led diplomatic efforts, had been due to expire within days. The extension is intended to create space for further negotiations, including the possibility of direct talks between senior leaders from both sides—an unprecedented step after decades of hostility. 

Despite the agreement, tensions remain high on the ground. Sporadic violence has continued in southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces maintain a presence and Hezbollah fighters have warned they reserve the right to respond to what they describe as violations of the ceasefire. 

Lebanon is pushing for the next phase of talks to address key issues such as Israeli troop withdrawal, an end to military strikes, and the demarcation of disputed borders. Israel, meanwhile, has emphasized the need to neutralize Hezbollah and ensure long-term security along its northern frontier. 

The conflict, which escalated sharply in March amid wider regional tensions linked to Iran, has already caused heavy casualties and displaced more than a million people in Lebanon. 

While the extension offers a temporary reprieve, diplomats caution that the ceasefire remains fragile, with its success dependent on sustained international mediation and compliance from all parties involved.