Ceasefire Between Israel and Hezbollah Takes Effect in Lebanon
A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, a Lebanese armed group, took effect on Wednesday following a deal brokered by the United States and France. This agreement marks a rare diplomatic success in a Middle East grappling with two active wars and numerous proxy conflicts over the past year.
The truce concluded one of the most intense confrontations in years between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah. However, Israel continues its military campaign against Hamas, a Palestinian militant group, in Gaza.
Lebanon's army, tasked with maintaining the ceasefire, announced preparations to deploy in the south, a region devastated by Israeli bombardment. These deployments extend to eastern areas and Hezbollah's stronghold in southern Beirut. Residents displaced by the violence were seen returning to their homes in heavily damaged areas, such as the southern port city of Tyre.
Israel's military confirmed its forces remained inside Lebanese territory and advised residents of evacuated southern villages to delay their return. Israeli incursions had pushed about 6 kilometers into Lebanon since September. Despite sporadic clashes, including incidents of firing at Hezbollah operatives near the border, the ceasefire appeared intact.
The agreement, seen as a major diplomatic achievement for the Biden administration, aims to end a conflict across the Israeli-Lebanese border that has claimed thousands of lives since erupting during the Gaza war in 2023. Attention now shifts to Gaza, where Israel has pledged to eliminate Hamas following its deadly October 7 attacks.
While some Lebanese families expressed eagerness to return, concerns about safety lingered. “The Israelis haven’t fully withdrawn, so we’re waiting for confirmation from the army,” said Hussam Arrout, a father of four. He, like many others, anticipates rebuilding life in villages left in ruins.
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