US State Department: Lebanon-Israel Ceasefire Can Be Extended

Washington - The US State Department has stated that the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon can be extended by mutual agreement between the two countries if there is progress in negotiations. “This initial period can be extended by mutual agreement between Lebanon and Israel if there is progress in the negotiations and if Lebanon effectively demonstrates its ability to assert its sovereignty,” the State Department said in a statement on Thursday. The statement mentioned that Israel and Lebanon have asked the US to facilitate further direct talks to resolve all remaining issues. “Israel will retain its right to take all necessary actions to defend itself, at any time, against planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks. This right will not be impeded by the cessation of hostilities,” according to the statement. In addition, Israel has stated that it will not carry out military attacks against targets in Lebanon, whether civilian, military, or other state objects, via land, air, or sea. Previously, US President Donald Trump announced that Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had agreed to begin a 10-day ceasefire on Thursday (16/4) at 21:00 GMT or Friday (17/4) at 04:00 WIB. Trump added that he would invite both leaders to visit Washington and hold constructive talks.