In stark contrast to what’s happening on the ground, the U.S. State Department announced Friday evening that the Lebanon ceasefire has been extended for another 45 days.
The dramatic announcement comes as heavy fighting continues along Israel’s northern border between Israeli forces and the Hezbollah terror organization—including drone launches, explosive UAVs, targeted killings, and casualties among our soldiers.
The American decision came after a round of talks in Washington between Israeli and Lebanese delegations, aimed at “enabling further progress.” According to the announcement, additional talks are expected in early June, with a parallel “security track” opening at the Pentagon involving military delegations.
Israeli Ambassador to Washington Yechiel Leiter said “the talks were honest and constructive. What will be foremost in our minds is the security of our citizens and soldiers.”
Hezbollah wasn’t rushing to commit to the agreement. A senior source in the terror organization quoted by Al-Araby channel said their position would be determined “based on the facts.”
Al-Mayadeen, a network affiliated with the organization, also noted that Hezbollah is rejecting direct negotiations and will determine its position “based on the reality on the ground.” The Lebanese delegation, for its part, said its goal is to turn the ceasefire into an agreement that preserves Lebanon’s sovereignty.