CubaHeadlines

Biden Announces U.S.-Brokered Ceasefire Between Israel and Hezbollah

Wednesday, November 27, 2024 by Daniel Colon

Biden Announces U.S.-Brokered Ceasefire Between Israel and Hezbollah
Joe Biden - Image by © Joe Biden / X

President Joe Biden revealed on Tuesday that Israel and Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed Lebanese militia, have agreed to a ceasefire following negotiations spearheaded by the United States. This agreement aims to end months of escalating tensions and clashes along the Israel-Lebanon border and will come into effect at 4:00 a.m. local time.

"This ceasefire is intended to be permanent," Biden stated, emphasizing the diplomatic strides made by his administration amidst a conflict that has resulted in thousands of deaths and displaced over a million people in the region. The Security Cabinet of Israel approved the proposal with a vote of 10 to 1, although the Israeli government maintains it will act against any threats to its security.

In a televised address, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared, "We will respond forcefully to any violations of the agreement by Hezbollah. This ceasefire allows us to focus on other strategic threats, such as those posed by Iran."

The pact details that Israeli forces will withdraw from Lebanese territory within 60 days, while Hezbollah will retreat north of the Litani River. Meanwhile, around 5,000 Lebanese army soldiers will be deployed in the southern region, though this force is not officially involved in the conflict.

Context of Escalating Violence

This agreement arrives amid a backdrop of intensifying violence, with recent attacks causing significant human and material losses on both sides. On Sunday, Hezbollah launched over 200 rockets into Israel, while Israeli airstrikes killed at least 31 people in Beirut and Tyre on Monday.

Since the hostilities began in October 2023, more than 3,500 individuals have perished in Lebanon, displacing approximately 1.2 million, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health. Israel has suffered the loss of 90 soldiers and 50 civilians, with 60,000 residents from the north having to evacuate their homes.

Broader Implications and Challenges

While the ceasefire marks a significant step toward stability on Israel's northern frontier, it does not address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza or negotiations for the release of hostages held by Hamas. Biden's announcement underscores the U.S.'s pivotal role as a mediator in the Middle East, though challenges remain in executing the agreement and seeking a broader resolution for the region.

© CubaHeadlines 2024