Truce amid turmoil! Inside US's brokered deal between Israel-Hezbollah that led to ceasefire

World News: Israel has agreed to a ceasefire deal with Lebanon’s Hezbollah, brokered by the United States, which came into effect early Wednesday (Israel time). The 60-day truce is aimed at de-escalating the conflict that has caused immense humanitarian and infrastructural damage. Hezbollah leaders have expressed preliminary support for the agreement but remain cautious about its implementation. The deal also allows Israel to act in case of violations, a provision opposed by Lebanon.

Everything you need to know on the ceasefire deal

The agreement mandates a 60-day ceasefire, during which Israeli troops will retreat, and Hezbollah fighters will withdraw from southern Lebanon. This move is seen as a potential exit strategy for both sides after weeks of intense fighting. However, Hezbollah's endorsement of the truce hinges on assurances that Israel will not resume its aggression.

Hezbollah’s deputy political council chair, Mahmoud Qamati, stated, “We want an end to the aggression, of course, but not at the expense of the sovereignty of the state of Lebanon.” The violent conflict has displaced over 1.2 million Lebanese citizens and 50,000 Israelis. According to Lebanese officials, Israel’s bombing campaigns have killed more than 3,700 people, predominantly civilians, while over 130 Israeli lives have been lost. The ceasefire offers a glimmer of hope for those affected by the devastation.

International reactions

US President Joe Biden welcomed the agreement, calling it “good news” and highlighting the crucial role of diplomacy in mitigating the crisis. “I just spoke with the prime ministers of Israel and Lebanon and am pleased to announce their governments have accepted the US proposal to end the devastating conflict,” Biden said. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also praised the ceasefire, describing it as “long overdue” while urging progress on the Gaza conflict, hostages, and humanitarian aid.

My statement on the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanese Hizbollah. pic.twitter.com/ZAxApKpJIT

— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) November 26, 2024

The agreement does not address the ongoing war in Gaza, sparked by the October 2023 Hamas attack that killed 1,200 Israelis. Hezbollah, which had linked its attacks on Israel to Gaza’s plight, may face criticism for agreeing to a ceasefire perceived by some as a retreat.