The Biden administration hopes the truce will transition into a lasting ceasefire, ending a conflict that has displaced hundreds of thousands, killed over 3,000 Lebanese and 70 Israelis, and shifted the regional power dynamics.
In the hours leading up to the agreement, Israel launched one of its heaviest airstrikes since the war began, targeting Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut and surrounding areas.
Despite agreeing to the ceasefire, Hezbollah’s involvement will be contingent on the approval of its leadership, with Nabih Berri, the speaker of Lebanon’s parliament, playing a key role in negotiations. Both Israel and Hezbollah have expressed a willingness to end the conflict if the terms meet their respective demands.
The announcement comes after months of escalating violence. While Hezbollah has continued to launch missiles and drones at Israel, Israel’s military has struck heavy blows to the group, including the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.
The ceasefire marks a turning point in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, which has been a long-standing issue since the last major war between the two sides in 2006. Despite the ongoing risks, both parties appear ready to de-escalate in order to refocus efforts elsewhere, especially in the ongoing Gaza conflict.