Israel and the Lebanon-based militant group Hezbollah have reached a 60-day ceasefire agreement, marking a significant step toward de-escalation in the region.
U.S. President Joe Biden, commenting on the development, said the deal could pave the way for a “permanent cessation of hostilities.” He also stated that the U.S. would spearhead efforts for a similar ceasefire in Gaza.
Negotiators have described the agreement as a potential foundation for a lasting truce between the two sides.
As part of the deal, Hezbollah fighters are expected to withdraw 40 kilometers from Israel’s border, while Israeli ground forces will retreat from Lebanese territory.
The ceasefire comes in the wake of intense violence. Just hours before the agreement, Israeli forces launched 20 airstrikes on Beirut’s southern border within two minutes. Hezbollah, in turn, claimed responsibility for deploying drones toward Israel.
Tuesday’s Israeli strikes in Lebanon resulted in the deaths of 25 people.
Despite the agreement, Israel has advised residents displaced by the fighting to delay returning to their homes in Lebanon, citing ongoing concerns.
