UN Welcomes Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire Extension as Fresh Peace Talks Begin

United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres has welcomed the decision by Israel and Lebanon to extend their current ceasefire for another 45 days following talks held in Washington, DC.

The extension, which takes effect on Sunday, May 17, 2026, was agreed upon after high-level negotiations involving delegations from both countries and mediation by the United States.

The move is aimed at creating more time for diplomatic discussions and reducing tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border.

US State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott announced that the ceasefire extension will allow negotiators to continue working toward a long-term political agreement.

Pentagon and Political Talks Scheduled

As part of the next phase of negotiations, military delegations from Israel and Lebanon are expected to meet at the Pentagon on May 29, 2026, to discuss security.

Political talks hosted by the US State Department are also scheduled for June 2 and 3,2026.

Pigott said Washington hopes the discussions will help achieve lasting peace between the two countries while respecting each nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“He reaffirms the support of the United Nations to all efforts to end hostilities and alleviate the suffering of communities on both sides of the Blue Line,” the UN chief’s office said in a statement.

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UN Calls for Respect of Ceasefire

The United Nations urged all parties involved to fully respect the ceasefire agreement and avoid further violence.

“The secretary-general welcomes the announcement of a 45-day extension of the cessation of hostilities, which followed talks between Israel and Lebanon facilitated by the United States,” the statement added.

The UN also called on all actors to comply with international law and international humanitarian law at all times.

According to the statement, the United Nations remains committed to supporting diplomatic efforts to fully implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701, adopted in 2006 to help maintain peace along the border.

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Violence Continues in Southern Lebanon

Despite the ceasefire extension, clashes and attacks have continued in southern Lebanon.

Israel has repeatedly carried out strikes in the area, saying it is targeting Hezbollah fighters.

Lebanon’s Health Ministry said on Saturday, May 15, 2026, that at least 18 people were killed and 124 others wounded in the past 24 hours.

Israeli Ambassador to Washington Yechiel Leiter, who led Israel’s delegation during the talks, stressed the importance of protecting Israel’s security interests.

“There will be ups and downs, but the potential for success is great,” Leiter wrote on X.

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Photo of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump. PHOTO/Whitehouse