Ceasefire and Talks: Israel, Lebanon and a Three-Week Pause

On April 23, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Israel and Lebanon have agreed to extend a temporary ceasefire by three weeks. He spoke after hosting both countries' ambassadors at the White House and posted the news on his social platform.

The initial 10-day truce began on April 16, 2026, and was meant to pause fighting with Hezbollah while wider diplomacy continued. The extension has been negotiated to allow direct Israel-Lebanon talks to advance a possible peace agreement, while diplomats work to keep negotiations with Iran on track. Although the Lebanese government is participating, Hezbollah has rejected direct talks and may refuse to take part.

The meeting took place in the Oval Office and included U.S. officials. U.S. officials said they will work with Lebanon to help protect civilians and strengthen security in the south.