A dramatic ceasefire has finally been established between Israel and Hezbollah, ending 14 months of brutal cross-border conflict that has claimed thousands of lives. The agreement took effect at 4 AM local time, allowing Israel to gradually withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon over the next 60 days, while the Lebanese army will collaborate with UN peacekeepers in the region. This pivotal moment has sparked a wave of relief across Lebanon, with many displaced individuals returning home despite warnings from the Israeli military.
Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati hailed the ceasefire as a “fundamental step” towards regional stability, urging unity after what he described as the “most cruel phase in Lebanese history.” He emphasized the need for the Lebanese army to secure the south and called on Israel to adhere to the agreement. Meanwhile, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri passionately urged all displaced Lebanese to return, stating, “Your land will be stronger with your presence.” The country has been without a president since October 2022, adding urgency to Berri’s call for a swift election.
Global Reactions Pour In
Internationally, reactions have been swift and varied. U.S. President Joe Biden expressed hope for a permanent cessation of hostilities, emphasizing that civilians on both sides can begin to rebuild their lives. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked Biden for his role in securing the ceasefire, while Hezbollah has yet to formally comment on the agreement. The ceasefire has also raised concerns among Palestinians in Gaza, who fear that Israel may intensify its military focus on the enclave now that its forces are freed from the conflict with Hezbollah.
Countries like China and Egypt welcomed the ceasefire, viewing it as a potential step towards broader peace in the region. The European Union’s Ursula von der Leyen called it “very encouraging news,” while Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock described it as “a ray of hope for the entire region.” As the world watches closely, the ceasefire represents a critical juncture in a long-standing conflict, with hopes that it may pave the way for more comprehensive peace efforts in the future.