Beirut: The United States has announced a three week extension of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, offering a temporary pause in a conflict that has caused widespread damage and displacement.
Despite the truce, Israeli forces have continued airstrikes across parts of Lebanon, including the south and areas of Beirut. Troops re entered southern Lebanon in early March and remain stationed within a 10 kilometre stretch of territory.
Lebanese health authorities report at least 2,294 deaths since the latest phase of fighting began. The toll includes 274 women and 177 children. The figures do not separate civilians from combatants. On the Israeli side, two civilians have died in Hezbollah attacks, along with 15 soldiers during combat operations in Lebanon.
The conflict has displaced more than one million people across Lebanon, according to United Nations data. Many families from the south have lost homes as villages and infrastructure face destruction.
Hezbollah, a Shia Muslim group with both political and military roles, remains central to the situation. Calls for its disarmament have come from the United States, Israel, and sections within Lebanon. The group has refused to engage on the issue.
Lebanese President Aoun said disarmament requires dialogue and warned against attempts to impose it through force. He said such actions risk further violence.
Supporters of Hezbollah argue the group provides protection in a fragile state system. The ceasefire extension creates space for talks, though core disagreements remain unresolved.
