Israeli Cabinet Approves Ceasefire Agreement with Hezbollah in Lebanon
Israeli Cabinet Approves Ceasefire Agreement with Hezbollah in Lebanon
The Israeli cabinet has approved a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah in Lebanon. The agreement will take effect on Wednesday morning. It requires Israeli forces to withdraw from Southern Lebanon. The Lebanese army will take control of the area, which is a Hezbollah stronghold, within 60 days. Hezbollah will halt its armed presence south of the Litani River.
The announcement coincided with a televised address from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He reported progress in Israel’s Middle Eastern operations and stated that the agreement would provide a “strategic opportunity” to secure Israel’s northern border.
After a security cabinet meeting, Netanyahu said he would present the ceasefire to the government for final approval and that its duration depends on events in Lebanon. He emphasized that, in full understanding with the U.S., Israel retains the freedom to act against Hezbollah in Lebanon.
“If Hezbollah violates the agreement or attempts to rearm, we will strike,” he promised. He added that any violations would be met with a strong response.
Netanyahu criticized those who claim Israel cannot engage in combat again after the ceasefire, reminding them of past skepticism regarding previous agreements. He encouraged belief in Israel’s determination and commitment to victory.
He outlined three reasons for accepting the ceasefire now. The first is to focus on the Iranian threat. The second is to allow Israeli troops to rest and replenish their supplies. The third reason is to separate the northern and southern fronts and isolate Hamas. Once Hezbollah is out of the equation, Hamas will face intensified pressure, which could help Israel bring home hostages.
An American official informed CBS News that the transition team of newly elected President Donald Trump was briefed on the ceasefire agreement, and it viewed the plan positively.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the finalized ceasefire agreement would support efforts to end the war in Gaza. The Biden administration committed to working with Trump’s transition team to ensure the implementation of the agreement.
According to Blinken, the ceasefire deal ensures the effective enforcement of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, adopted in 2006 to end the Second Lebanon War by forcing Hezbollah to disarm and retreat beyond the Litani River, 18 miles north of the Israeli border. This resolution has not been enforced since its adoption, and Hezbollah has repeatedly violated it.
The new agreement includes the Lebanese army deploying in Southern Lebanon alongside UNIFIL and a new oversight mechanism.