Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Lebanon Takes Effect
The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon officially came into effect at 04:00 local time on November 27, 2024. This truce, which is set to last for 60 days, aims to end over a year of intense conflict between Israel and the militant group Hezbollah. The agreement allows for a gradual return of residents to their homes on both sides of the border, following a devastating period of violence that resulted in significant casualties, including over 3,500 Lebanese and around 150 Israelis.
Key Provisions of the Agreement
Under the terms of the ceasefire, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will withdraw from southern Lebanon, while the Lebanese army will deploy troops to fill the security vacuum. Hezbollah is required to relocate its heavy weaponry north of the Litani River and dismantle any military infrastructure south of this line. The United States, along with France and the United Nations, will oversee the implementation of the agreement, although no American troops will be stationed in southern Lebanon.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that Israel retains the right to respond militarily to any violations of the ceasefire, asserting that any threats from Hezbollah will be met with a strong response. This clause is crucial for Israel, which seeks to maintain its security while navigating the delicate political landscape in the region.
International and Domestic Reactions
The ceasefire agreement has garnered mixed reactions domestically, with some Israeli officials, particularly from the far-right, expressing skepticism about the truce. Minister Itamar Ben Gvir opposed the agreement, arguing that it represents a missed opportunity to decisively weaken Hezbollah. Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden has welcomed the ceasefire, highlighting its potential to pave the way for peace in the broader region, including Gaza. The agreement is seen as a strategic move for Israel, allowing it to focus on the Iranian threat and isolate Hamas, while also addressing the humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict.
