A ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect at 4 AM local time on Wednesday, marking a big break after more than a year of intense fighting. The Israeli security cabinet voted to approve a ceasefire deal with Lebanon on Tuesday, which might end an all-out war with the Hezbollah group that has killed thousands of people and displaced hundreds of thousands.
The proposal was brought to the cabinet by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and after its consideration, it came out to be in a result of 10 to 1. Far-right minister Itamar Ben Gvir opposed it. A senior US official engaged in the talks expressed the belief that the deal aims at the withdrawal of the Israeli troops from the south of Lebanon within the following 60 days.
U.S. President Joe Biden sealed the deal, calling it a measure to achieve a permanent end of hostilities. From the White House Rose Garden, Biden said both Israel and Lebanon accepted the U.S. proposal to end the devastating conflict, referring to the agreement as “good news” and a “new start” for Lebanon.
However, just hours before the truce took effect, airstrikes continued to target Beirut’s southern suburbs. The Israeli army issued evacuation warnings for three buildings in Bourj Al-Barajne and Ghbaire, signaling ongoing tensions.
The duration of this war is dependent upon Hezbollah,” he underscored, adding: “We will enforce the agreement and respond forcefully to any violation.” The truce leaves Israel free to act fully against Hezbollah if the Iran-backed group presents any new threat.
The conflict has also resulted in a number of significant casualties: Lebanese officials maintain that at least 3,823 deaths have occurred since fighting broke out in October 2023, with most in recent weeks. For their part, the Israelis estimate that at least 82 soldiers and 47 civilians have died. Netanyahu thanked Biden for bringing about the cease-fire in a move viewed as setting the stage for renewed confrontation with Hamas and Iran.
