Ceasefire Begins on Lebanon-Israel Border

A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah started Wednesday following US and French diplomatic efforts. Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati requested Israel’s withdrawal from positions it currently holds.

The Lebanese army stated it plans to deploy to southern Lebanon but advised border residents to postpone returning until Israeli forces withdraw from the 6-kilometer area they occupy.

Israel reported detecting Hezbollah personnel approaching the border Wednesday morning and responded with warning shots. The ceasefire otherwise remained intact.

The agreement addresses the border conflict that began after October 7, 2023. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stated on France Info radio that dialogue should replace military action in both Lebanon and Gaza.

The border tensions have affected both countries since the Gaza conflict started. This ceasefire marks the first diplomatic resolution in the region’s two ongoing conflicts.

Israel indicates it will maintain its focus on operations in Gaza against Hamas following the October attacks.