President Joe Biden announced that Israel and Hezbollah have agreed to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire in Lebanon to end the fighting at the Israel-Lebanese border and prevent a regional war. The agreement, set to go into effect on Wednesday, is aimed at a permanent cessation of hostilities. Biden emphasized that the deal is in Lebanon’s best interest and supports its sovereignty, calling for an end to the violence and displacement suffered by the people. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that his Cabinet approved the deal, acknowledging the U.S. contribution while reserving Israel’s right to act against any threats to its security.
The tensions and back-and-forth strikes over the past year have resulted in thousands of deaths and displacement of over a million people. The conflict has intensified since Hezbollah began trading fire with Israel following a terrorist attack by Hamas. Israel has vowed to continue its attacks on Hezbollah until the displaced residents of northern Israel can return safely. The Lebanon conflict has become a focal point for Israel, given Hezbollah’s significant missile arsenal that poses a threat to Israeli security.
The fighting in Lebanon has resulted in over 3,820 deaths and the displacement of 1.2 million people, creating a humanitarian crisis in the region. The ceasefire agreement provides hope for peace, with the U.S. and its partners committed to ensuring its full implementation. President Biden stressed that peace is possible, emphasizing the importance of ending the cycle of violence and restoring stability to the region.
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