A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group, has been implemented in Lebanon after over a year of intense conflict. The ceasefire took effect on Wednesday at 04:00 local time (02:00 GMT) and marks a significant pause in hostilities that have claimed the lives of more than 3,823 people and resulted in around 15,859 injuries, according to local officials. The deal was announced by a coalition including Israel, France, and the United States, with President Joe Biden emphasizing the goal of achieving a “permanent cessation of hostilities.”
In the hours leading up to the ceasefire, both sides carried out attacks, prompting Israel to issue evacuation orders for certain areas in Beirut. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) issued warnings to residents in southern Lebanon prior to the ceasefire, indicating a cautious approach to security as the agreement took effect. Israel and Hezbollah have engaged in almost continuous fighting since late September, with Israel escalating its military actions, including ground invasions into Hezbollah-held areas.
Under the terms of the ceasefire agreement, Israel will gradually withdraw its troops from southern Lebanon over the next 60 days. In parallel, Hezbollah is expected to remove its fighters and weapons from areas south of the Litani River, an established boundary since the end of the last major conflict in 2006. These territories will subsequently be overseen by Lebanese government forces. Leaders from both the US and France expressed optimism that this ceasefire could facilitate a return to stability, allowing displaced residents to return home safely.
Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati welcomed the ceasefire, viewing it as a vital step toward restoring stability, while also urging Israel to adhere to the agreement. However, he acknowledged that achieving lasting peace will require inclusivity and dialogue within Lebanon’s political landscape.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that his government would respond decisively to any violations of the ceasefire by Hezbollah, highlighting Israel’s commitment to self-defense. According to a recent poll, public opinion among Israelis is divided regarding the ceasefire, indicating mixed sentiments about the agreement.
The situation also impacts the broader geopolitical landscape, as Hezbollah’s diminished combat capacity following this conflict raises concerns for Iran regarding its regional influence. Experts suggest that the ceasefire may extend beyond the initial 60 days due to mutual interests in avoiding continued conflict, enabling both Israel and Hezbollah to reassess their military capabilities.
The ongoing war has had dire repercussions for Lebanon, with a significant displacement of populations and widespread devastation in the regions affected by the conflict. The resolution of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah offers a glimmer of hope, with the potential for improved stability in the region, as well as renewed diplomatic efforts aimed at addressing the long-standing tensions in Gaza.
In summary, the ceasefire agreement presents a crucial opportunity for both Israelis and Lebanese to pursue peace and security, with regional powers hopeful that this development can pave the way for further negotiations and dialogue.