Jerusalem and Beirut—The Israeli security cabinet approved a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah on Tuesday night, set to take effect at 4 a.m. on Wednesday in both Israel and Lebanon. The decision has garnered widespread international support and has intensified calls for a comprehensive solution to the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
In a recorded video address earlier on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu outlined the rationale behind the ceasefire. He cited a strategic shift in focus toward threats from Iran, the necessity of refreshing military forces and replenishing weapons, and the isolation of Hamas in the Gaza Strip as key factors influencing the decision.
“With Hezbollah out of the picture, Hamas is left alone in the campaign. Our pressure on it will increase, and this will assist in achieving the goal of freeing our hostages,” Netanyahu stated.
The Terms of the Agreement
The ceasefire agreement stipulates a 60-day cessation of hostilities. Israeli troops are to retreat to their side of the border, while Hezbollah is required to end its armed presence in a substantial area of southern Lebanon. In place of these forces, thousands of Lebanese troops and United Nations peacekeepers will be deployed south of the Litani River.
An international panel led by the United States is set to monitor compliance by all parties involved. While Israel has insisted on retaining the right to respond should Hezbollah violate the agreement, Lebanese officials have opposed formally incorporating this clause into the deal.
Global Reactions
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati welcomed the ceasefire in a statement released by the Lebanese Council of Ministers. He described it as a “fundamental step towards establishing calm and stability in Lebanon and returning the displaced to their homes and cities.” Mikati added that the agreement “helps establish regional stability.”
U.S. President Joe Biden expressed his support for the ceasefire, stating that it is “designed to be a permanent cessation of hostilities. What is left of Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations will not be allowed.” He emphasized that Israel “retains the right to self-defense” should “Hezbollah or anyone else” breach the newly established agreement.
Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, the United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon, also lauded the announcement. In a statement on Tuesday, she said, “The United Nations welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, which marks the starting point of a critical process, anchored in the full implementation of resolution 1701 (2006), to restore the safety and security that civilians on both sides of the Blue Line deserve.”
Hennis-Plasschaert urged all parties to follow through with “concrete actions” to solidify the progress made by the ceasefire.
Looking Ahead
The ceasefire agreement is seen by many as an opportunity to reduce tensions in a region long plagued by conflict. However, the situation in the Gaza Strip remains a point of international concern. Observers are hopeful that the truce between Israel and Hezbollah might pave the way for renewed efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and achieve lasting peace.
As the ceasefire takes effect, the international community continues to watch closely, emphasizing the importance of sustained commitment from all parties involved to ensure stability and security in the region.
Reference(s):
Intl community lauds Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire, urges Gaza solution
cgtn.com
