Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon continue despite ‘ceasefire’ extension

Despite a 45-day ceasefire extension agreed upon by Lebanon and Israel following talks in Washington, Israeli forces have continued to conduct air strikes and artillery bombardments on southern Lebanon. The Lebanese National News Agency reported strikes on at least five villages and towns, including Yohmor al-Shaqif and areas near Sidon and Nabatieh. The Israeli army also issued forced displacement orders for nine villages in southern Lebanon. These actions occur despite the theoretical ceasefire, which Lebanon's negotiating delegation welcomed as providing breathing room and advancing a political pathway toward stability. Hezbollah, however, opposes the negotiations given the ongoing Israeli military actions.

Lebanon and Israel have extended a ceasefire for 45 days following mediated talks by the US State Department. This extension, effective from April 16, aims to allow for further progress towards a resolution. Despite a recent increase in violence, the agreement was reached. The US State Department announced it will host negotiations for a permanent political agreement on June 2 and 3. Additionally, the Pentagon will convene military delegations from both countries on May 29.

The United States State Department announced that Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a 45-day extension of their ceasefire following productive talks in Washington. This extension comes after the shaky truce between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group was set to expire. Further negotiations are scheduled for June 2-3. The US expressed hope that these discussions will lead to lasting peace, mutual recognition of sovereignty, and improved border security. This agreement was reached despite recent Israeli strikes on Hezbollah sites in southern Lebanon, which reportedly wounded nearly 40 people and damaged a healthcare center and hospital.