Israel Violates Ceasefire: Two Hezbollah Members Killed in Lebanon
The Israeli military spokesperson, Hagari, has admitted that despite a recently declared ceasefire, two Hezbollah agents were killed, and several others detained in southern Lebanon. This breach comes on the very first day of the ceasefire agreement.
Acknowledged Breach by the Israeli Military
The acknowledgment of this violation was made by Israeli military spokesperson Hagari. He confirmed that two Hezbollah operatives had been killed, with others taken into custody despite the ceasefire being in effect.
Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Hezbollah
The ceasefire, mediated by U.S. President Joe Biden and approved by the governments of Lebanon and Israel, officially came into effect on Wednesday at 4:00 AM local time (5:00 AM Turkey time). President Biden announced the agreement through a press statement, emphasizing the steps involved to ensure its implementation.
Under the terms of the ceasefire:
- Lebanese Armed Forces will deploy along the southern border within 60 days to establish control over the area.
- Hezbollah forces will be disarmed and moved north of the Litani River.
- Israeli troops will withdraw from the region in phases during the same 60-day period.
President Biden clarified that no U.S. troops would be stationed in Lebanon during this process. He also highlighted the diplomatic efforts led by the U.S. and France in reaching this agreement.
International Coalition for Implementation
An international coalition spearheaded by the U.S. and France is set to oversee the ceasefire’s implementation. Biden also noted that displaced Lebanese citizens and Jewish settlers in northern Israel would be able to return to their homes as part of the agreement.
Before the agreement was officially enacted, reports suggested that between 5,000 and 10,000 Lebanese troops would be deployed to the region between the Israeli border and the Litani River. The deployment aims to prevent the presence of armed Hezbollah forces along the border, ensuring security and stability for both sides.
Challenges to Peace
Despite the optimism surrounding the agreement, the killing of Hezbollah operatives and the detention of others on the first day raises serious concerns about the fragility of the truce. Analysts warn that such violations could lead to renewed tensions, undermining the efforts to establish lasting peace in the region.
