The ceasefire in Lebanon is seen as a pivotal moment that could influence the situation in Gaza, with many hoping for a similar agreement to alleviate the humanitarian crisis there.
The reactions from Gaza highlight the deep-seated concerns about isolation and the potential for increased violence, contrasting sharply with the relief felt in Lebanon as communities begin to recover from the conflict.
If the ceasefire holds, it may lead to renewed diplomatic efforts to address the situation in Gaza, potentially involving international mediators like Turkey as mentioned by US President Biden.
Continued military operations by Israel in Gaza could escalate if Hezbollah is perceived to be rearming or violating the ceasefire, leading to further regional instability.
The recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah has elicited mixed reactions from both the people of Gaza and Lebanon. In Gaza, residents are cautiously optimistic, hoping that the truce in Lebanon may lead to a similar resolution for their ongoing conflict. Activists express a blend of sadness and hope, with some fearing that the ceasefire could allow Israel to intensify its military operations in Gaza, which has already suffered immense humanitarian crises since October 7, 2023.
In Lebanon, the ceasefire has been met with joy, as residents begin to return to their homes after months of conflict. US President Joe Biden hailed the agreement as a 'new beginning' for Lebanon, emphasizing that it aims to halt the violence that has displaced thousands. The ceasefire took effect early Wednesday, allowing for a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from the border region, while the Lebanese army redeploys southward.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the ceasefire, stating it was necessary to focus on the Iranian threat and to separate fronts in the ongoing conflict. He noted that the duration of the ceasefire would depend on the situation on the ground, with a potential timeline of 60 days. Netanyahu also indicated that military action would continue if Hezbollah violated the terms of the agreement.
