Washington, DC (April 16, 2026)

A U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon is set to take effect Thursday evening, creating a narrow opening for direct negotiations aimed at reducing tensions and laying the groundwork for a broader long-term agreement between the two countries. Under the framework outlined by the U.S. State Department, the cessation of hostilities is scheduled to begin at 5:00 p.m. Eastern time and last for an initial period of 10 days.

The arrangement is being presented as a goodwill step designed to create space for diplomacy after months of conflict along the Israel-Lebanon border. The United States said both sides are expected to enter direct negotiations in good faith with the goal of reaching a more durable security and peace understanding. The pause in fighting may be extended if both governments agree that talks are progressing and if Lebanon demonstrates greater control over its territory.

Under the terms described by Washington, Israel is expected to halt offensive military operations in Lebanon by land, air and sea once the ceasefire begins, while still maintaining its claimed right to act in self-defense against imminent or ongoing threats. Lebanon, with international backing, is expected to take steps to prevent Hezbollah and other armed groups from launching attacks against Israeli targets from Lebanese territory.

The agreement also reinforces the position that Lebanon’s official security forces alone are responsible for the country’s sovereignty and national defense, a point with major implications for Hezbollah’s role inside the country. Another major objective of the coming talks is to address unresolved disputes, including the demarcation of the international land boundary.

Even with the ceasefire in place, uncertainty remains high. Reporting on the deal has described it as fragile, with questions still hanging over enforcement, Hezbollah’s stance and Israel’s continued military posture in southern Lebanon. Still, the agreement marks a rare diplomatic opening between two countries that have long remained in a state of conflict.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, this evening:

"We have an opportunity to forge a historic peace agreement with Lebanon. President @realDonaldTrump intends to invite me and the President of Lebanon in order to try to advance this agreement.

1/13 pic.twitter.com/lYMjAzm2Je

— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) April 16, 2026