In a significant development, Israel has agreed to a ceasefire with Lebanon, effective as of midnight (Israel time) on November 27.
The agreement was sanctioned by Israel's Security Cabinet, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that any breaches by Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group based in Lebanon, would be met with severe retaliation.
The ceasefire, facilitated by the United States and France with official announcements pending from President
Joe Biden and President Emmanuel Macron, aims to address multiple concerns, including Iran's influence, replenishing military supplies, and isolating Hamas.
Conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has persisted for several months, contributing to ongoing war with Hamas since October 2023 after a major attack on Israel by Hamas forces based in Gaza.
The deal outlines that Hezbollah, along with other armed groups in Lebanon, will cease offensive actions against Israel, which reciprocates by halting military operations in Lebanon.
The United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 is acknowledged in the agreement, emphasizing self-defense rights, regulated arms control, and deployment of Lebanese official forces along borders.
A supervisory committee will ensure the commitments are met, with the U.S. mediating further border negotiations.