A short ceasefire has been agreed between Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu. This is the result of weeks-long cross-border violence. A 10-day ceasefire began at midnight on the 16th of April, local time. This provided a small window for diplomatic and humanitarian relief.
The Ceasefire Agreement includes
Deal will be for 10 days with the option of extending if there is progress in talks. US State Department released key terms.
Israel has the right to act as a self-defence in response to any immediate threats. Lebanon should take action to prevent armed groups such as Hezbollah from attacking. This agreement confirms the responsibility of Lebanon’s National Forces for ensuring security in Lebanon.
Reactions of Key Players
The leaders of Israel and Lebanon welcomed the ceasefire. Netanyahu called it a chance for a historic deal. Nawaf Salm, the Prime Minister of Lebanon said that he hoped that displaced families could now go home.
Hezbollah’s support has been cautious. Hezbollah insists that the ceasefire should stop all attacks in Lebanon, and limit Israeli military movements.
Iran has also supported the ceasefire. The spokesperson of the Foreign Ministry expressed their support for Lebanon, and called for greater calm throughout the region.
Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, urged both sides to adhere to international law. European leaders including Ursula von der Leyen, Kaja Kallas and others described this agreement as an important break from violent conflict and called for more serious talks.
Why Israeli troops remain in Southern Lebanon
Israel intends to maintain troops in southern Lebanon despite the ceasefire. Netanyahu has confirmed that the forces will remain about 10 kilometers from border. Israel won’t withdraw from the security zone, he said.
Israel Katz, the Minister of Defence at the time, had suggested that a larger military presence could extend to include even Litani River.
Effects on Civilians
Over 1.2 millions people have been forced to flee their homes. Most of them are from the south. Some families may be able to return home, but the damage in many areas of lmnTq is still severe.
In the coming days, we will see if this pause will lead to real change or if tensions rise once again.
