The U.S. administration emphasizes the critical need for a temporary extension of the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah to ensure regional stability and the safe return of displaced civilians.
As the deadline approaches for Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon under the current ceasefire agreement, the White House has called for an urgent, temporary extension to solidify the progress made and address ongoing security concerns.
National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes stated on Friday that President Donald Trump is committed to facilitating the safe return of Israeli citizens to their northern homes and supports Lebanese President Joseph Aoun’s efforts to stabilize the region. “All parties share the goal of ensuring Hezbollah does not have the ability to threaten the Lebanese people or their neighbors,” Hughes emphasized. He further noted, “To achieve these goals, a short, temporary ceasefire extension is urgently needed. We are pleased that the IDF has started the withdrawal from the central regions, and we continue to work closely with our regional partners to finalize the extension.”
The ceasefire, brokered on November 27, 2024, outlined a 60-day timeline for Israeli forces to withdraw from Lebanese territory and for the Lebanese army to deploy in the south. However, with the deadline imminent, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that a complete withdrawal would not occur within the agreed timeframe. He attributed the delay to Lebanon’s alleged failure to fulfill its commitments under the ceasefire terms. Netanyahu stated, “The withdrawal process is conditional on the Lebanese Army deploying in southern Lebanon and fully and effectively enforcing the agreement, while Hezbollah withdraws beyond the Litani.” He added that since Lebanon “has not yet fully enforced” its obligations, “the phased withdrawal process will continue, in full coordination with the United States.” Netanyahu also highlighted that the agreement was crafted “with the understanding that the withdrawal process may continue beyond 60 days.”
In the meantime, Israeli military operations have persisted in southern Lebanon. On Friday, the Israeli army entered the towns of Aitaroun and Qantara, where they reportedly destroyed civilian properties and a local mosque, according to the Lebanese National News Agency.
The U.S. administration’s call for a ceasefire extension underscores the delicate balance required to maintain regional stability. While the initial agreement marked a significant step toward ending hostilities, the complexities of implementation have necessitated further diplomatic efforts. The proposed extension aims to provide additional time for both Israel and Lebanon to meet their respective obligations, thereby ensuring a durable peace and the safety of civilians on both sides of the border.
As diplomatic channels remain active, the international community watches closely, hopeful that an extended ceasefire will pave the way for lasting resolution and prevent a resurgence of violence in the region.
