The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said on Friday that it conducted airstrikes in southern Lebanon, targeting what it described as militant infrastructure, even though a ceasefire had been announced. The Israeli Air Force said it struck military facilities in the Khirbet Salam and Tulin regions of southern Lebanon. According to the statement, these sites were allegedly being used by Hezbollah to plan and support attacks against Israeli forces and the State of Israel.

The IDF further stated that the strikes were carried out in response to rocket fire launched by Hezbollah toward the Shlomi area the previous night, suggesting that the operation was retaliatory in nature despite ongoing ceasefire discussions. The development comes amid reports that a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon had been extended for an additional three weeks. This followed talks reportedly involving senior officials from both countries and mediated discussions linked to the United States.

At the White House, former US President Donald Trump told reporters that representatives from Israel and Lebanon had agreed to extend the ceasefire. He also said that leaders from both countries were expected to visit the United States in the coming weeks to continue discussions. Trump expressed optimism about the situation, saying that a temporary halt in hostilities had been agreed upon, although he acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly involving Hezbollah. He emphasized hope that the ceasefire would continue, while noting the complexity of achieving lasting calm in the region.

Trump also announced that the ceasefire extension had been agreed upon and said the United States would assist Lebanon in strengthening its ability to counter threats from Hezbollah. He described the meeting between US, Israeli, and Lebanese officials as highly successful and “historic” in nature.

US Vice President JD Vance also commented on the development, calling the extension of the ceasefire a significant achievement. He credited Trump’s direct involvement in facilitating the agreement and described the step as an important move toward reducing tensions in the region.