The Israeli security cabinet approved a cease-fire deal with Hezbollah in Lebanon, indicating a potential end to over a year of conflict. The cease-fire is set to take effect at 4 a.m. local time on Wednesday, as announced by President Biden.
The decision, made with a 10 to 1 vote by Israeli ministers, followed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's public endorsement of the proposal in a televised address. This development comes after significant airstrikes by Israeli forces in Beirut and Hezbollah-controlled areas, which caused widespread panic among residents.
President Biden confirmed that both the Israeli and Lebanese governments accepted the U.S. proposal to end hostilities. He noted that the cease-fire would be implemented over 60 days and aims for a permanent cessation of conflict. However, Netanyahu emphasized that the duration of the cease-fire would depend on Hezbollah's actions.
Netanyahu outlined three primary reasons for the cease-fire: to allow Israel to concentrate on Iran, to give the military time to recuperate, and to isolate Hamas, which has been engaged in conflict in Gaza since the attacks on October 7, 2023. He did not disclose specific terms of the cease-fire or its expected duration, and it remains unclear if Israel's understanding aligns with Hezbollah's.
The cease-fire proposal, facilitated by American and French diplomats, includes provisions for Israeli troop withdrawal from Lebanon and the relocation of Hezbollah fighters north of the Litani River. This would enable the Lebanese Army and a U.N. peacekeeping force to take control of the area. The cease-fire will be monitored by several countries, including the U.S. and France, along with the United Nations.
French President Emmanuel Macron stressed the importance of respecting the cease-fire to ensure lasting security for both Lebanese and Israeli citizens, pledging support for the Lebanese army's increased presence in southern Lebanon.
The cease-fire announcement comes as President Biden prepares to transition out of office, following extensive diplomatic efforts to achieve peace while balancing support for Israel and calls for restraint in its military actions in Gaza and Lebanon.
Biden expressed hope that the cease-fire in Lebanon could facilitate renewed peace talks regarding the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza. The administration aims for a durable peace that could lead to greater regional stability after a year marked by escalating tensions involving Israel, Iran, and its proxies.
The conflict with Hezbollah began in October 2023, following rocket fire into northern Israel in solidarity with Hamas. The situation escalated into a low-level war, resulting in significant displacement and casualties on both sides. Recent Israeli military actions have intensified, including airstrikes and ground operations in Lebanon.
As the cease-fire discussions unfolded, Israeli airstrikes continued to target Beirut and southern Lebanon, resulting in casualties and further destruction. The Lebanese health ministry reported multiple fatalities and injuries from the strikes, with ongoing rescue efforts in affected areas.
Despite heavy losses, Hezbollah has maintained its military operations against Israel, including recent missile and drone attacks. The Israeli military reported extensive strikes against Hezbollah targets, including financial institutions linked to the group.
Questions remain regarding the cease-fire's implementation, particularly concerning the Lebanese Army's ability to assert control over Hezbollah. The Lebanese government is scheduled to meet to discuss the cease-fire proposal.
The United Nations has expressed readiness to enforce the cease-fire, while Hezbollah has not officially commented on the agreement. The group's leadership previously indicated a willingness to accept a truce under certain conditions.
Opposition to the cease-fire exists within Israel, particularly among far-right leaders who argue that it could lead to future conflicts with Hezbollah. The last major conflict between Israel and Hezbollah occurred in 2006, resulting in significant casualties and a subsequent cease-fire.