US Announces Extension of Lebanon-Israel Ceasefire

The US State Department announced the extension of the 45-day ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel. This was announced on Friday (May 15th) local time, after the end of the third round of direct talks mediated by the United States.

The fourth round of talks will take place at the US State Department on June 2-3, said US State Department Spokesperson, Tommy Pigott.

Although attacks continue between the Hezbollah militia group and Israel, the US noted the efforts and stance of Beirut regarding Hezbollah’s attacks.

“The US remains aware of the challenges posed by Hezbollah’s ongoing attacks against Israel, without the approval or permission of the Lebanese government, which are carried out to undermine this process,” said Pigott, as reported by the AFP news agency, Saturday (May 16, 2026).

Pigott made the statement after a two-day session of “very productive” talks between Lebanon and Israel.

In addition to the fourth round of talks, a separate security channel will be launched at the Pentagon on May 29 with military delegations from both sides, Pigott said.

The extension of the ceasefire will allow the security channel to “significantly enhance communication and coordination between Israel and Lebanon, facilitated by the United States,” he said.

“We hope that these discussions will advance lasting peace between the two countries, full recognition of each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and build true security along their common border,” said Pigott.

The Lebanese government welcomed the results of the two-day talks. It was stated that the establishment of a security channel provides “important breathing space for our citizens, strengthens state institutions, and advances the political path towards lasting stability.”

In a statement released by the Lebanese Embassy in Washington, the Lebanese government said it would continue to engage constructively in the negotiations while upholding its sovereignty and protecting the safety of its people.

“Our goal is to transform the momentum of the current ceasefire into a comprehensive and lasting agreement that protects the dignity, security, and future of the Lebanese people,” the statement said.