Washington DC [US]: After months of conflict, Israel and Hezbollah have agreed to a US-mediated ceasefire, announced by US President Joe Biden. The announcement came following extensive diplomatic efforts by the US and France to end the violence that has claimed thousands of lives and displaced hundreds of thousands.
Sharing the news on X (formerly Twitter), Biden stated:
“Today, I have good news to report from the Middle East. I have spoken to the Prime Ministers of Lebanon and Israel. And I am pleased to announce: They have accepted the United States’ proposal to end the devastating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked Biden for US efforts, reiterating Israel’s freedom to respond to any violations. In a statement, he emphasized:
“If Hezbollah violates the agreement and tries to arm itself, rebuild terrorist infrastructure, or launch attacks, we will respond decisively.”
A joint statement from Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the ceasefire’s significance:
“This announcement will cease the fighting in Lebanon and secure Israel from the threat of Hezbollah. It will also restore calm, allowing residents in both countries to safely return to their homes along the Blue Line.”
The ceasefire, effective at 4 a.m. local time, includes provisions for Lebanon’s armed forces to take control of southern Lebanon, preventing Hezbollah from rebuilding its infrastructure. Israel will gradually withdraw its forces within 60 days, enabling displaced civilians to return and rebuild their lives.
President Biden emphasized the need for peace, stating:
“This is the deadliest conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in decades. Lasting security cannot be achieved only on the battlefield, which is why the United States worked tirelessly to forge this agreement.”
Both the US and France committed to providing assistance to implement the deal, including support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and economic development. Biden also affirmed Israel’s right to self-defense under international law if the agreement is violated.
The conflict, which began on October 8 last year, escalated with border skirmishes and a ground invasion by Israel in mid-September. The violence resulted in the deaths of key Hezbollah leaders, including Hassan Nasrallah, and significant casualties on both sides.
The ceasefire is seen as a pivotal step toward restoring stability in the region, with international stakeholders closely monitoring its implementation.