Lebanon Ceasefire: Israel-Hezbollah 60-Day Truce Deal Takes Effect Today, IDF To Withdraw Troops Under US-France Oversight

Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire: A ceasefire agreement between Israel and the Iran-backed group Hezbollah took effect on Wednesday, following a deal brokered by the United States and France. US President Joe Biden confirmed that both sides had accepted the terms, which marked a crucial step toward ending the escalating conflict along the Israeli-Lebanese border. 

This agreement comes following months of violent clashes, which were ignited by the Gaza war last year and have resulted in thousands of casualties. The ceasefire now opens the door for a potential de-escalation of tensions, offering hope for peace in the region.

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The truce agreement, which put a stop on hostilities for 60 days, was approved by Israel's security cabinet by a 10-1 vote. US President Joe Biden stated that he had spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanon's caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, reaching an agreement for a ceasefire to take effect at 4 a.m.  local time (0200 GMT) on Wednesday. 

He emphasized that the ceasefire was intended to be permanent. Biden further stated that any remaining Hezbollah fighters or other terrorist groups would not be permitted to jeopardize Israel's security again, as reported by news agency Reuters. 

Biden also said that Israel will gradually withdraw its forces over 60 days, allowing Lebanon's military to take control of areas near the border with Israel. "Civilians on both sides will soon be able to return safely to their communities," he said. 

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The Lebanon ceasefire agreement requires that Israeli forces will pull back from southern Lebanon, while the Lebanese army is set to deploy in the area. Hezbollah, under the terms of the agreement, will cease its armed presence along the border south of the Litani River.

Following the deal, President Biden held separate discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Lebanon's Prime Minister Najib Mikati.

Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib stated earlier that the Lebanese military would be ready to deploy at least 5,000 troops in southern Lebanon as Israeli forces withdraw. He also mentioned that the United States could assist in the reconstruction of infrastructure that had been damaged by Israeli airstrikes.