Ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah seems stable, but IDF cautions Lebanese against returning home.

The ceasefire negotiated by the United States between Israel and Hezbollah took effect after 14 months of deadly bombings in southern Lebanon and northern Israel. The ceasefire, announced by President Joe Biden, aims to be permanent, although Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of further attacks if Hezbollah rearms or strikes again. The truce has brought a moment of relief to people in Lebanon and Israel, many of whom are displaced and eager to return home. The ceasefire agreement effectively reinstates an old deal from 2006 that ended the war between Israel and Lebanon but was never fully implemented. For Lebanon, the agreement presents an opportunity for respite after a year of violence that has devastated public services and infrastructure. However, it is unclear when displaced residents will be able to return home, as the Israeli military has not yet withdrawn from southern Lebanon. Despite the ceasefire, ongoing violence in Gaza continues, with more than 44,000 people killed in Israel’s military assault against Hamas. The administration is working on another push for a ceasefire in Gaza, engaging with regional actors to reach a resolution. In Israel, opinions on the ceasefire are divided, with some supporting the terms while others oppose them, including some members of Netanyahu’s coalition. The ceasefire has been widely welcomed internationally, with hopes for a lasting peace in the region.

Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com