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A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect early Wednesday, starting at 4 a.m. local time (2 a.m. UK time). The truce, brokered by the United States and France, comes after months of violence that claimed thousands of lives in Lebanon and displaced over a million people.
Key Details of the Ceasefire Agreement
The agreement marks a 60-day pause in hostilities and aims to provide much-needed relief to civilians. In Lebanon, people began returning to their homes almost immediately, with streams of cars heading southward despite warnings from Israeli military officials. Celebratory gunfire was reportedly heard in Beirut, though its purpose remained unclear.
Withdrawal and Oversight
Under the terms of the deal, Hezbollah will withdraw from positions south of the Litani River, approximately 30 km from the Israeli border. Israeli forces will also gradually pull back, with the Lebanese army assuming control of the evacuated areas. Lebanon’s Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib indicated that at least 5,000 troops would be deployed to prevent Hezbollah from reestablishing its presence.
Disputes and Warnings
Despite hopes for lasting peace, disagreements linger. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that Israel retains the right to respond militarily if Hezbollah violates the agreement. Hezbollah and Lebanese officials, however, disputed this interpretation. Netanyahu warned, "For every violation, we will attack with might." U.S. President Joe Biden supported Israel’s right to resume operations if the truce is breached, while reiterating that the deal is intended to be a "permanent cessation of hostilities."
Human and Regional Impact
The ceasefire follows a devastating period of conflict. In Lebanon, over 3,700 people have been killed since the fighting began 13 months ago, including the last two months of intense Israeli ground operations. The conflict also displaced 1.2 million people, with Israel claiming to have killed more than 2,000 Hezbollah fighters. In Israel, 75 people, including civilians, were killed by Hezbollah rocket attacks.
Even as the truce brings hope for Lebanon, concerns remain for Gaza, where a humanitarian crisis looms. Thousands remain displaced, and winter conditions could exacerbate the suffering. Additionally, Hamas still holds dozens of hostages who have endured over a year in captivity.
While the ceasefire represents a significant diplomatic achievement, challenges lie ahead. Questions over enforcement, mutual trust, and broader regional stability will test the agreement’s durability in the weeks to come.
Source: Sky News
