Washington: US President Donald Trump announced Thursday that the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon has been extended by three weeks following ambassador-level direct talks at the White House.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, President Trump took to his Truth Social platform to announce the extension after hosting ambassadors from both Israel and Lebanon in the Oval Office. The meeting, which also included Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, was described by Trump as 'very successful.' He emphasized that the United States would collaborate with Lebanon to help the country 'protect itself' from the Hezbollah group.

Trump expressed his anticipation to soon host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House. He indicated that their visits would likely occur during the newly extended ceasefire period. Speaking to reporters, Trump remarked on the positive nature of the discussions, suggesting it could mark the beginning of a significant development.

When questioned about the possibility of achieving peace between the two nations within the year, Trump spoke optimistically of a 'great chance' for peace. However, he cautioned that Israel would need to defend itself if provoked, stating, "I would never say that they can't."

This recent meeting marks the second encounter between Lebanese Ambassador Nada Hamadeh Moawad and Israeli Ambassador Yechiel Leiter, amid a fragile ceasefire. The two countries, which do not maintain formal diplomatic relations, held their first set of talks in over 30 years on April 14 at the State Department. The US-brokered 10-day ceasefire, initially effective from April 16, was due to expire on Sunday.