U.S. President Donald Trump declared a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, but discord over Israeli troops’ presence and Hezbollah’s dismantling raised doubts about the truce’s sustainability. As the ceasefire was slated to begin at midnight local time on Friday, celebratory gunfire and rocket launches were heard in Beirut. However, the Lebanese army reported Israeli violations shortly after the ceasefire commenced, including shelling villages in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah documented its military activities against Israel leading up to the ceasefire, with the last attack minutes before the truce started. Trump subsequently urged Hezbollah to honor the ceasefire, emphasizing the importance of peace. The ceasefire followed intense fighting that resulted in over 2,000 casualties in Lebanon and widespread destruction, prompting Trump’s discussions with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The U.S. State Department released details of the ceasefire agreement, stipulating Lebanon’s commitment to preventing armed groups within its borders from attacking Israel. Meanwhile, Israel agreed to self-defense measures but refrained from offensive operations in Lebanon during the 10-day ceasefire. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam welcomed Trump’s ceasefire announcement, although it remained uncertain if Hezbollah would comply given its prior rejection of talks.
The ceasefire agreement came after direct diplomatic talks between Lebanon and Israel in Washington, D.C. Hezbollah awaited confirmation of the temporary ceasefire’s commencement and stressed Israel’s adherence to halting hostilities. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalated following rocket attacks on northern Israel, triggering retaliatory strikes and significant casualties on both sides. Israel’s military actions targeted various parts of Lebanon, leading to infrastructure destruction and civilian displacement.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has resulted in thousands of casualties and severe damage in Lebanon. Despite the ceasefire announcement, uncertainties remain regarding Hezbollah’s compliance and the long-term peace prospects in the region.