Lebanon says six killed in Israeli strike as US announces ceasefire extension

Israel and Lebanon have agreed to extend a ceasefire that was initially set to expire on April 17. The extension was announced by the United States following two days of talks in Washington. The ceasefire will now be in effect for an additional 45 days, according to the US announcement. Despite this extension, fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has continued, with Israel conducting new strikes in southern Lebanon that it claims are not covered by the truce. These strikes have occurred since early March in response to fire from Hezbollah. The situation in Lebanon has been dire, with hundreds of people reported dead due to Israeli strikes, even as the ceasefire remains in place. The ongoing violence has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the ceasefire and the humanitarian impact on the Lebanese population. The US has facilitated discussions aimed at a political settlement, indicating a desire for a more stable resolution to the conflict. As part of the ceasefire extension, Lebanon and Israel are set to hold expanded talks in Washington. These discussions are intended to address the ongoing hostilities and seek a more comprehensive political solution. The announcement of the ceasefire extension comes amid a backdrop of continued military actions, highlighting the fragile nature of the current peace efforts.