A significant ceasefire between Israel and Lebanese armed group Hezbollah has been upheld as of Wednesday, marking a pivotal moment after 14 months of intense conflict. This agreement, brokered by the U.S. and France, has allowed people from both nations to start returning to their homes in the border regions that were devastated by the prolonged fighting.
The cessation of hostilities represents a rare diplomatic achievement in a region long plagued by turmoil. It effectively ends the deadliest confrontation between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah in recent years. However, tensions remain high as Israel continues its conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
In the Lebanese port city of Tyre, scenes of displaced residents beginning their journey home are becoming more common. Vehicles laden with mattresses, suitcases, and even furniture are making their way south, transporting some of the approximately 1.4 million people displaced by the conflict.
Despite the truce, Hezbollah's operations center released its first statement since the announcement without directly referencing the ceasefire. The group emphasized that its fighters are \"fully equipped to deal with the aspirations and assaults of the Israeli enemy\" and will closely monitor Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon \"with their hands on the trigger.\" This stance underscores Hezbollah's commitment to its resistance, even as it faces challenges from casualties and the loss of its leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah.
The conflict has had a devastating impact on Lebanon, with the Lebanese Health Ministry reporting at least 3,768 fatalities since the onset of hostilities linked to the Gaza war last year. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the ceasefire as \"the first ray of hope\" amid months of escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi welcomed the truce, expressing hope for its permanence. In Lebanon, the return of displaced individuals is met with a mix of emotions, with some vehicles flying national flags, others honking, and scenes of jubilation as residents reclaim their homes.
This ceasefire not only brings immediate relief to those affected by the conflict but also opens the door for longer-term stability and rebuilding efforts in the region.
Reference(s):
Israel-Hezbollah truce holds, displaced Lebanese begin to journey home
cgtn.com
