Israeli Security Cabinet Approves Ceasefire with Hezbollah

The Israeli Security Cabinet voted 10-1 on Tuesday evening to approve a 60-day ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah, the Iran-backed terrorist organization in Lebanon. The truce, brokered by the United States and France, is set to go into effect at 10 a.m. local time on Wednesday.

Under the agreement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will gradually withdraw from southern Lebanon during a 60-day transition period, while the Lebanese Armed Forces deploy to the border region. Hezbollah is required to relocate its military infrastructure north of the Litani River, approximately 18 miles from Israel’s border.

The deal will be overseen by a U.S.-led committee to monitor compliance and address potential violations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has pledged to cease all offensive military operations in Lebanon, including on land, at sea, and in the air. However, Defense Minister Yisrael Katz warned of decisive action against any breaches. “Every rearming and regrouping by terrorists will be attacked, and every threat to our forces or citizens will be immediately destroyed,” Katz said.

The agreement comes amidst ongoing hostilities. On Sunday, Hezbollah launched over 240 projectiles into northern Israel, one of the most intense days of violence since the group joined the war following Hamas’s October 8, 2023, attack on Israel. The conflict has displaced more than 60,000 residents of northern Israel and killed at least 76 people, including 31 IDF soldiers.

Some Israeli lawmakers expressed concerns over the terms of the ceasefire. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich outlined demands to hold Lebanon’s government accountable for any attacks and to ensure immediate responses to violations. Public gatherings in northern Israel have been suspended until Thursday in anticipation of potential pre-truce violence.

The ceasefire seeks to enforce provisions of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, adopted in 2006, which mandated the removal of Hezbollah’s military presence south of the Litani River. The resolution, however, was never fully implemented, and Hezbollah has since expanded its arsenal and infrastructure in the region.

As the truce takes effect, both nations face critical tests of trust and enforcement. Israeli officials insist on strict oversight, while Hezbollah has yet to formally approve the deal. The agreement represents a rare diplomatic breakthrough, but its success will depend on both parties adhering to their commitments.

Stay updated on regional developments by sharing this article or subscribing to our newsletter.