Washington, United States – The White House announced on Sunday that the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon has been extended until February 18, 2025. This extension comes as Israel failed to meet the initial deadline for troop withdrawal under the terms of the deal.
US Monitors Extended Ceasefire
The agreement, brokered by the United States, aimed to end the hostilities between Israel and Lebanon that erupted following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. The ceasefire was originally established on November 27, 2023, with Lebanon’s army and UN peacekeepers tasked with securing the southern region as Israeli troops withdrew.
Despite the extension, the White House’s statement on Sunday did not explicitly confirm whether the ceasefire remains intact. It also omitted mention of France, which played a key role alongside the US in negotiating the agreement.
Rising Violence and Missed Deadlines
The ceasefire faces growing uncertainty as Israeli forces killed 22 people, including six women, in southern Lebanon on Sunday, according to Lebanon’s health ministry. Israeli military sources claimed the victims posed an “imminent threat” to their troops.
Israel has made clear it has no intention of adhering to the withdrawal deadline, citing Lebanon’s army’s failure to fully implement its responsibilities under the agreement.
US Negotiations on Prisoner Exchange
The White House has also pledged to mediate negotiations between Israel and Lebanon for the return of Lebanese prisoners captured during the recent conflict. The move reflects the broader challenges of maintaining stability in the region, as tensions remain high with Iranian-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Looking Ahead
The 60-day ceasefire initially offered hope for de-escalation, but the extension highlights the fragility of peace in the region. As violence continues, international mediators, led by the US, face mounting pressure to ensure both sides comply with the terms of the agreement.