Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Takes Effect After 14 Months of Conflict
A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, the Lebanese armed group, has officially begun after over a year of intense cross-border violence that resulted in thousands of casualties. The truce took effect at 4:00 AM local time (02:00 GMT) on Wednesday, marking a significant step toward de-escalation in the region.
Terms of the Ceasefire
Under the agreement, Israel will gradually withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon over the next 60 days. The Lebanese army, alongside United Nations peacekeepers, will assume control of the vacated areas.
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Reactions from Around the World
Lebanon
- Prime Minister Najib Mikati called for national unity, emphasizing the Lebanese army's role in maintaining southern security.
- Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri urged displaced Lebanese citizens to return home and emphasized the urgent need to elect a president.
Israel
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude to the U.S. for its involvement and stressed Israel’s right to respond to future threats.
Global Responses
- United States: President Joe Biden described the ceasefire as a critical step toward regional stability and pledged to support reconstruction efforts.
- France: Highlighted its diplomatic role in brokering the deal, with Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot praising the success of French diplomacy.
- United Nations: Welcomed the agreement but warned of challenges in implementation, urging both sides' full commitment.
- China and the EU: Expressed optimism that the ceasefire would reduce regional tensions and improve stability.
- Egypt and Jordan: Called for the ceasefire to extend to Gaza, urging an end to violence in Palestinian territories.
Regional Impact
While the ceasefire offers hope for stability in Lebanon, concerns remain about its impact on Gaza. Many fear that Israel's focus might shift, intensifying hostilities in the enclave. Palestinians in Gaza expressed mixed feelings, with some hopeful for broader peace and others wary of increased pressure.
This ceasefire marks a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern geopolitics, potentially opening the door for broader peace initiatives.