PRESIDENT Joe Biden announced on Tuesday that Israel and Hezbollah had agreed to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, which took effect early Wednesday morning, bringing an end to the escalating conflict along the Israel-Lebanese border.
The ceasefire agreement aims to halt the ongoing violence and establish a permanent cessation of hostilities.
The fighting over the past year had resulted in dozens of deaths in Israel, hundreds in Lebanon, and the displacement of tens of thousands of people on both sides.
Under the new agreement, which was set to take effect at 4 a.m. local time, the United States, in partnership with France, will ensure the full implementation of the deal, Biden stated.
While confirming the ceasefire, President Biden emphasized Israel’s right to defend itself should Hezbollah or any other entity breach the agreement and pose a direct threat.
“If Hezbollah or anyone else breaks the deal, and poses a direct threat to Israel, then Israel retains the right to self-defense consistent with international law,” Biden said.
He further stressed that the ceasefire was in Lebanon’s best interest, supporting the country’s sovereignty and the need to end violence and displacement, particularly in Gaza, where the situation has been dire.
“The people of Gaza have been through hell. Their world is absolutely shattered,” Biden said, urging Hamas to release hostages as a step towards peace.
Shortly after Biden’s announcement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that Israel’s Cabinet had approved the deal, which was backed by a majority of ministers. Netanyahu reiterated that Israel reserves the right to act against any security threats.
A senior U.S. official explained that the ceasefire would involve a phased Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon, with the Lebanese military and security forces gradually taking control of southern Lebanon.
The withdrawal process is expected to take around 60 days to complete.
The agreement follows months of intensified fighting, especially after Hezbollah became actively involved in the conflict following the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks by Hamas.
The violence has led to significant casualties on both sides, with over 40,000 killed in Gaza alone since Israeli operations began.
In Lebanon, the conflict has caused over 3,800 deaths and displaced approximately 1.2 million people, leading to a humanitarian crisis.
The World Bank has estimated the economic losses and physical damages in Lebanon at around $8.5 billion.
In addition to the ceasefire, Biden reiterated his commitment to achieving a secure and prosperous Middle East, where Israel and a future Palestinian state can coexist in peace, free from threats and terrorism.