Netanyahu says efforts underway for "historic peace" with Lebanon as ceasefire extended

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said efforts were underway to achieve a "historic peace" between Israel and Lebanon following a three-week ceasefire extension, while accusing Hezbollah of attempting to derail the process.

In his first remarks since the truce extension, Netanyahu said he had held an "excellent conversation" with US President Donald Trump, crediting Washington's continued pressure on Iran and close coordination with Israel.

"I promised you that we would change the face of the Middle East, and that is exactly what we are doing… He is applying very strong pressure on Iran, both economically and militarily. We are operating in full cooperation," Netanyahu said.

The comments come after Trump announced a three-week extension of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon following talks with senior officials from both sides.

"They've agreed to an additional three weeks… no more firing," Trump said, while cautioning that Hezbollah remains a key concern.

US Vice President JD Vance described the extension as a "major, historic moment," while Secretary of State Marco Rubio said it would provide more time to work toward a lasting peace.

Despite the extension, ground realities remain tense. Hezbollah has dismissed the ceasefire as "meaningless" due to continued Israeli military actions.

"It is clear to us that Hezbollah is trying to sabotage this," Netanyahu said, adding that Israel would maintain "full freedom of action" against threats.

According to Reuters, Israeli strikes and Hezbollah responses have continued in southern Lebanon, even after the truce came into effect. Lebanese authorities reported casualties from recent airstrikes, while Hezbollah has also claimed to have downed Israeli drones.

The ceasefire has reduced large-scale hostilities but has not stopped intermittent violence, with Israeli forces maintaining a "buffer zone" inside southern Lebanon.

Netany ahu reiterated Israel's position on security, saying, "We attacked yesterday and we attacked today. We are determined to restore security to the residents of the North."

The truce in Lebanon is unfolding alongside broader regional tensions linked to the Iran conflict, complicating diplomatic efforts. While the US has expressed optimism about a potential breakthrough, continued clashes on the ground underline the fragility of the ceasefire.

With both sides trading accusations and military actions ongoing, prospects for a lasting agreement remain uncertain despite the temporary pause in fighting.