Beirut, November 27, 2024 – The Europe Today: A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah officially took effect at 4 a.m. Wednesday, marking a potential turning point in a conflict that has spanned over 14 months and caused significant devastation in Lebanon.
The truce was reached following a surge in violence, with Israel conducting its most intense wave of airstrikes on Beirut just hours before the ceasefire began. The conflict, which began in October 2023, has resulted in nearly 4,000 deaths, over 16,000 injuries, and the displacement of more than a million people in Lebanon.
Under the terms of the agreement, the ceasefire will last for an initial two-month period. During this time, Hezbollah is required to withdraw its armed presence from southern Lebanon, while Israeli troops will return to their side of the border. Compliance will be monitored by an international panel led by the United States.
While Israel has warned of a swift military response if Hezbollah violates the agreement, there has been no immediate statement from Hezbollah regarding the ceasefire.
The conflict has been fueled by escalating tensions linked to Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza, which have drawn international condemnation over their humanitarian impact. The ceasefire in Lebanon represents a critical step toward de-escalating regional tensions, though concerns remain about its durability.
Observers and local communities are watching closely to see if the agreement will hold, with hopes that the ceasefire may pave the way for broader peace efforts and relief for the war-torn region.
