Ceasefire Agreement Reached Between Israel and Hezbollah Amid Ongoing Tensions
JERUSALEM (AP) — A significant ceasefire took effect Wednesday between Israel and Hezbollah militants, marking a potential end to 14 months of escalating violence. Celebratory gunfire was noted in some areas of Beirut, but no immediate breaches of the ceasefire were reported.
The ceasefire, which starts with an initial two-month halt to hostilities, mandates Hezbollah to withdraw its armed forces from southern Lebanon while Israeli troops return to their side of the border. In addition, thousands of Lebanese troops and U.N. peacekeepers will establish a presence in the south, monitored by an international panel led by the U.S.
The ceasefire agreement comes after a recent surge of violence, including intense Israeli airstrikes that resulted in over 40 deaths. Israeli officials have warned that any violations by Hezbollah would prompt a forceful response. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s right to act swiftly if the terms are broken. Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden praised the agreement, indicating his administration’s commitment to fostering broader peace, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Hezbollah, while accepting the ceasefire, has expressed concerns over sovereignty and the final terms of the agreement, indicating a cautious approach to its implementation.
As the conflict in Lebanon continues, the ceasefire is viewed as a crucial step toward stability, potentially diminishing the likelihood of a larger confrontation involving Iran, which backs both Hezbollah and Hamas. The toll of the conflict has been severe, with over 3,760 deaths in Lebanon, mostly civilians, and significant displacement of people on both sides of the border as the violence escalates.
Source
Photo credit aldailynews.com
