The US State Department: Ceasefire deadline in Lebanon can be extended, Israel retains "right to self-defense"

The 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon went into effect at 5 p.m. Eastern Time on the 16th. The U.S. State Department issued a statement on that day, saying that the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon could be extended, and Israel reserves the right to take all necessary self-defense measures during the ceasefire. The statement said that Lebanon indicated that the two countries are not currently in a state of war, and pledged to engage in direct negotiations in good faith with U.S. assistance to resolve outstanding issues including the delineation of land borders, with the aim of reaching a comprehensive agreement to ensure lasting security, stability, and peace between the two countries. If substantial progress is made in the negotiations, and Lebanon can effectively demonstrate its ability to exercise national sovereignty, the 10-day ceasefire period may be extended by mutual agreement.