Ceasefire Between Israel and Hezbollah Holds on First Day Amid Renewed U.S. Push for Gaza Peace
On Wednesday, a ceasefire brokered by the U.S. and France took effect between Israel and the Iran-backed group Hezbollah, with U.S. President Joe Biden pledging an urgent effort to negotiate a broader ceasefire in Gaza. In a social media announcement, Biden emphasized the need for hostages to be released and for Hamas to be excluded from power in any long-term solution.
The ceasefire appeared to be holding despite a report from Lebanon’s national journalists syndicate of an Israeli shooting incident involving journalists in Khiam, which was labeled a "first violation" of the ceasefire. The Associated Press (AP) confirmed its freelancer was safe, underscoring the risks journalists face in conflict zones.
As tensions rise, the ongoing conflict has resulted in extensive casualties; around 3,800 people have reportedly died in Lebanon, many of them civilians, while the war has ravaged Gaza with death tolls exceeding 44,000. Biden expressed his concern for both Lebanese and Palestinian civilians, stating, “They too deserve an end of the fighting and displacement.”
Hezbollah’s recent aggression began following Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel, which left about 1,200 Israelis dead. As negotiations for Gaza peace efforts intensify, Hamas has indicated a willingness to engage, which could pave the way for releasing hostages and establishing a ceasefire.
The framework of the recent ceasefire involves the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon over 60 days, while both sides remain cautious about compliance. Distrust remains high, with Israeli officials warning of retaliatory action if Hezbollah breaches the agreement.
As Lebanon’s ceasefire brings hope for stability, many are now looking towards Gaza, hoping a similar resolution can be reached for its beleaguered population.
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