Ceasefire Between Israel and Hezbollah Takes Effect

A ceasefire between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah came into effect at 0200 GMT on Wednesday, following a U.S. and French-brokered agreement endorsed by both sides. Announced by U.S. President Joe Biden, the agreement aims to bring an end to a devastating conflict along the Israeli-Lebanese border that has claimed thousands of lives since it erupted during the Gaza war last year.

Key Developments

Ceasefire Implementation: Gunfire was heard in Beirut after the ceasefire began, though its nature—celebratory or warning—remained unclear. Streams of cars were seen returning to southern Lebanon, as Israeli forces prepared to gradually withdraw over the next 60 days. Lebanon’s army will assume control of border areas to prevent Hezbollah’s resurgence

Statements from Leaders:

Biden emphasized the ceasefire as a step toward permanent peace, ensuring security for Israel and facilitating the return of displaced civilians.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supported the deal but warned of decisive action against any violation, underscoring Israel's military readiness. He claimed the campaign had significantly weakened Hezbollah by destroying its infrastructure and neutralizing its top leadership.

Lebanon's caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib welcomed the deal, highlighting plans to deploy 5,000 Lebanese troops in the south. Hezbollah officials signaled resilience, with senior figure Hassan Fadlallah asserting the group’s strengthened position.

Regional and International Roles:

French President Emmanuel Macron praised the agreement as a culmination of extensive diplomatic efforts.

The U.S., France, and the UNIFIL peacekeeping force will collaborate with Lebanon’s army to oversee ceasefire compliance.

Biden’s administration pledged vigilance against violations and continued efforts to broker peace in Gaza and pursue normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Pre-Ceasefire Hostilities

In the hours leading up to the truce, intense violence persisted. Israeli airstrikes targeted Hezbollah's financial systems, killing at least 18 people, while Hezbollah launched rockets into Israel, prompting widespread alarms and military interceptions. Civilians on both sides expressed mixed emotions, with some hopeful for peace and others skeptical about the ceasefire’s durability.

Challenges Ahead

The agreement faces criticism within Israel and Lebanon. In Israel, opposition figures and border community leaders demand stricter security measures, including a buffer zone in southern Lebanon. Right-wing Israeli officials doubt the Lebanese army’s capacity to restrain Hezbollah. Meanwhile, Lebanese leaders prioritize the safe return of displaced civilians to the south, a key element of the truce.

A poll by Israel's Channel 12 revealed a divided public opinion, with 37% supporting the ceasefire and 32% opposing it.

As the region grapples with the aftermath of war, the success of the ceasefire will depend on effective enforcement, mutual restraint, and the international community’s role in maintaining peace.