Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Hezbollah Set to Begin

In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, a ceasefire is set to take effect early on Wednesday. This agreement, proposed by the United States, aims to establish a 60-day truce, marking a hopeful turn in a year-long period of hostilities. The details of the deal remain largely undisclosed, but it has garnered approval from both Israel's security cabinet and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati.

US President Joe Biden announced the ceasefire, emphasizing its goal of achieving a permanent cessation of hostilities. The agreement, which was negotiated by US mediator Amos Hochstein, spans five pages and includes 13 sections outlining the terms of the truce. A key provision is the halt to hostilities, which is scheduled to commence at 4 a.m. local time on Wednesday. Both Israel and Hezbollah are expected to cease fire by Wednesday morning, a move that could pave the way for a more stable environment in the region.

According to a senior Lebanese political source, Israel is expected to refrain from conducting any military operations against Lebanese territory, including attacks on civilian and military targets. In return, all armed groups in Lebanon, including Hezbollah and its allies, will halt their operations against Israel. This mutual cessation of hostilities is a crucial step towards reducing tensions and fostering dialogue.

Another significant aspect of the agreement is the planned withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon within 60 days. Biden indicated that this withdrawal would be gradual, allowing civilians on both sides to return home safely. Initially, Lebanese officials had advocated for a quicker withdrawal, but they now anticipate that Israeli troops will leave within the first month of the truce.

Hezbollah fighters are also expected to relocate north of the Litani River, which lies approximately 30 kilometers from the Israeli border. While the withdrawal of Hezbollah fighters will not be public, it is reported that their military facilities will be dismantled. The Lebanese army is set to deploy around 5,000 soldiers in the southern region to maintain security and order.

One of the challenges ahead will be managing the return of displaced individuals. Over 1.2 million people have been forced to flee their homes due to Israeli strikes, and the return of these individuals is a priority for Hezbollah. Additionally, tens of thousands displaced from northern Israel are also expected to return home, further complicating the situation.

Monitoring the ceasefire will be crucial to its success. A tripartite mechanism involving the United Nations peacekeeping force, the Lebanese army, and the Israeli army will be expanded to include the US and France. This collaborative effort aims to ensure compliance with the ceasefire terms and address any potential violations.

Despite the optimism surrounding the ceasefire, Israeli officials have made it clear that the Israeli army will continue to act against Hezbollah if it perceives any threats to its security. This includes potential strikes on Hezbollah if they violate the terms of the agreement. The situation remains delicate, and the effectiveness of the ceasefire will depend on the commitment of both sides to uphold the terms.

While the ceasefire represents a hopeful step towards peace, the path ahead is fraught with challenges. The success of this agreement will hinge on the cooperation of all parties involved and their willingness to prioritize dialogue over conflict. As the world watches, the hope is that this truce can lead to a more stable and peaceful future for the region.