Washington DC [US], April 17 (ANI): The 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon could be extended by mutual agreement, while Israel will retain the right to act in self-defence during the truce, CNN reported, citing a Memorandum of Understanding released by the US State Department.

The six-point statement, agreed upon by both countries, outlines the terms of the ceasefire that came into effect at 5 p.m. ET on Thursday and is aimed at facilitating negotiations toward a long-term peace arrangement, as reported by CNN.

It describes the ceasefire as 'as a gesture of goodwill by the Government of Israel, intended to enable good-faith negotiations toward a permanent security and peace agreement between Israel and Lebanon.'

The document underscores that Israel's defensive posture will remain intact despite the cessation of hostilities, as per CNN.

'Israel shall preserve its right to take all necessary measures in self-defense, at any time, against planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks. This shall not be impeded by the cessation of hostilities,' the statement says.

According to CNN, the statement added, 'Besides this, it will not carry out any offensive military operations against Lebanese targets, including civilian, military, and other state targets, in the territory of Lebanon by land, air, and sea.'

It further notes that the continuation of the ceasefire will depend on progress in diplomatic efforts and Lebanon's internal security enforcement, as per CNN.

'According to the statement, the ceasefire 'may be extended by mutual agreement between Lebanon and Israel if progress is demonstrated in the negotiations and as Lebanon effectively demonstrates its ability to assert its sovereignty.''

The memorandum also places responsibility on Lebanon to curb militant activity within its territory, CNN reported.

'From April 16, 2026, at 17:00 EST, forward, with international support, the Government of Lebanon will take meaningful steps to prevent Hezbollah and all other rogue non-state armed groups in the territory of Lebanon from carrying out any attacks, operations, or hostile activities against Israeli targets,' it says.

It reiterates the primacy of Lebanon's national forces in maintaining sovereignty, as reported by CNN.

'All parties recognize Lebanon's security forces as having exclusive responsibility for Lebanon's sovereignty and national defense; no other country or group has claim to be the guarantor of Lebanon's sovereignty,' the MOU notes.

The agreement also calls for continued US facilitation in advancing direct dialogue between the two sides, according to CNN.

'Israel and Lebanon request that the United States facilitate further direct negotiations between the two countries with the objective of resolving all remaining issues, including demarcation of the international land boundary, with a view to concluding a comprehensive agreement that ensures lasting security, stability, and peace between the two countries,' the final point added as per CNN.

Meanwhile, Israel has maintained that it will not withdraw its forces from Lebanese territory during the ceasefire period.

On the other hand, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri has urged residents of southern Lebanon not to return to their villages immediately, citing safety concerns amid the evolving situation on the ground, CNN reported.

'Safeguarding lives and personal safety is among our foremost duties,' Berri said in a statement issued by his office, according to CNN.

He called on people to remain cautious and wait for clarity following the ceasefire announcement.

'We urge everyone to exercise patience and delay their return to their towns and villages until the situation and unfolding events become clear, in accordance with the ceasefire agreement,' he added.

His remarks come after US President Donald Trump announced that a ceasefire in Lebanon would come into effect at 5 p.m. ET.

Southern Lebanon, a traditional stronghold of Hezbollah, has witnessed sustained bombardment and ground operations for over two years. Several residents from border villages have been displaced following evacuation warnings issued by Israeli forces and an intensified military offensive in the region, CNN reported. (ANI)