The ceasefire, if approved, could mark a significant step towards stabilizing the region after over a year of conflict.
The involvement of the US and France highlights the international community's interest in resolving the Israel-Hezbollah conflict.
The humanitarian implications of the ceasefire are crucial, as thousands of civilians have been displaced and require assistance.
If the ceasefire is approved, it may lead to a temporary reduction in hostilities, allowing for humanitarian aid to reach affected areas.
The success of the ceasefire could pave the way for longer-term peace negotiations between Israel and Hezbollah.
Failure to implement the ceasefire could result in escalated violence and further casualties on both sides.
Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Hezbollah Expected Soon
A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah is anticipated to be announced shortly after 10 p.m. local time in Lebanon, as reported by Lebanese media outlet al-Jadid. The announcement will be made jointly by the United States and France, with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati expected to publicly endorse the agreement. The ceasefire is set to take effect the following morning at 10:00 local time, according to a Lebanese government source.
The Israeli cabinet is currently in session to discuss the ceasefire, which has been a contentious topic among ministers, particularly with far-right members opposing the truce, labeling it as a 'surrender.' Despite the ongoing discussions, there are calls from northern Israeli towns for continued military action against Hezbollah, citing concerns over security and the presence of terrorist infrastructure along the border. As a precaution, schools in northern Israel will remain closed, and the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have implemented restrictions in the area.
Recent Israeli airstrikes in Beirut have resulted in casualties, with reports indicating at least one death and ten injuries from the latest attacks. These strikes, described as the most intense since the conflict escalated over two months ago, have targeted areas known to house displaced persons and Hezbollah strongholds. The situation remains volatile as the IDF continues operations even as a ceasefire looms.
International Response and Implications of the Ceasefire
The ceasefire agreement, which is still pending approval from the Israeli cabinet, includes a two-month truce during which Israeli forces would withdraw from Lebanon, and Hezbollah would relocate its heavy weaponry north of the Litani River. A US-led oversight committee will monitor the implementation of the agreement, which aims to facilitate the return of civilians to their homes on both sides of the border, following a year of intense conflict that has claimed thousands of lives.
The G7 Foreign Ministers have expressed support for the ceasefire negotiations and emphasized the need for adherence to international humanitarian law. EU High Representative Josep Borrell has urged the Israeli government to finalize the ceasefire agreement, warning that failure to do so could lead to further destabilization in Lebanon. Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with calls for the blockade of aid to be lifted amidst ongoing Israeli military actions in the region.
As the situation develops, both sides remain on high alert, with the potential for renewed hostilities if the ceasefire is not successfully implemented.
