2024-11-27 03:15:00
After a marathon of negotiations lasting several weeks, an agreement aimed at silencing the weapons in Lebanon was announced in prime time on Tuesday 26 November during a televised speech by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This ceasefire plan, immediately adopted by the security cabinet of the Jewish state, came into force on Wednesday at 4 am Lebanese and Israeli time (3 am in France).
The agreement, negotiated by the American special envoy to Lebanon, Amos Hochstein, provides for the establishment of a sixty-day phase during which Israeli troops will have to evacuate the south of the Country of the Cedars, where they entered on October 1st. At the same time, Hezbollah forces will have to retreat north of the Litani River, about twenty kilometers from the border.
During this two-month phase, the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) will have to gradually deploy in the border strip evacuated by Hezbollah, joining the Blue Helmets of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), whose numbers are expected to be revised upwards . The FAL is authorized to immediately send between 1,000 and 2,000 men to southern Lebanon, then increase to 6,000 men over the next six months.
“Sustainable restoration of calm”
Lebanese soldiers and UNIFIL will have to ensure that the scenario of the previous war between Israel and Hezbollah, in 2006, is not repeated. UN resolution 1701, which put an end to this conflict and already provided for the withdrawal of the Shiite militias north of the Litani, had not been implemented. To avoid such a repetition, a monitoring committee will be created, chaired by the United States, which will include an already existing structure, the tripartite committee (Lebanon, Israel and the United Nations), which has become inoperative since the beginning of the war. as well as France.
The clash between Hezbollah and the Jewish state began in the form of a low-intensity clash, on October 8, 2023, on the initiative of the Shiite militia, as a sign of support for Hamas, bombed in the Gaza Strip in retaliation for the movement’s attack armed Palestinian Islamist against Israel. The conflict escalated into open warfare on September 23, 2024, during an extremely violent wave of Israeli bombing, resulting in more than 500 deaths in 24 hours.
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What are the historical factors contributing to the Israeli-Hezbollah conflict that led to the recent ceasefire agreement?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Middle East Conflict Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good day, and welcome to another episode of Insights. Today, we’re diving into the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, marked by significant announcements from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Joining us to unpack the implications of this agreement is Dr. Miriam Klein, a renowned expert on Middle Eastern politics and conflict resolution. Thank you for being here, Dr. Klein.
Dr. Miriam Klein (DMK): Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important and sensitive topic.
TNE: Let’s start with the basics. What can you tell us about the context of this ceasefire agreement? Why was it necessary at this particular moment?
DMK: The ceasefire came after a series of intense negotiations and escalating violence following Israel’s military operations that began on October 1st. The agreement is crucial not only to stop immediate hostilities but also to create a framework that prevents a repeat of the destruction seen during previous conflicts, particularly in 2006. The desire to end this cycle of violence drives many stakeholders—including international players like the United States, represented by Amos Hochstein, the American special envoy to Lebanon.
TNE: That’s an important context. Could you elaborate on the key components of the agreement and its phases?
DMK: Certainly. According to the plan, there’s a 60-day period during which Israeli forces will withdraw from southern Lebanon, while Hezbollah is expected to retreat north of the Litani River. This scripted withdrawal aims to create a buffer zone managed by the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and UNIFIL. The deployment of Lebanese troops, initially 1,000 to 2,000, is projected to increase to 6,000, as they are expected to ensure stability and prevent escalation during this critical time.
TNE: It sounds like a calculated step towards peace. However, rebuilding trust and ensuring compliance will be a challenge. In your view, what measures can be taken to encourage both parties to abide by this agreement?
DMK: Absolutely, restoring trust will be key. One effective measure might be increasing the presence and support of UN peacekeeping forces. The resolution emphasizes their role in monitoring the situation. Additionally, ongoing diplomatic efforts that involve regional stakeholders can maintain pressure on both sides to adhere to the terms. Engagement from countries like the U.S. can be pivotal in fostering communication and addressing any grievances.
TNE: That makes sense. The past has shown us that ceasefires are often fragile. How can the international community support the implementation of this agreement to ensure it lasts?
DMK: The international community must remain actively involved, not just at the government’s level but also through grassroots peace-building initiatives. Enhanced funding for the LAF, longer-term commitments to UNIFIL troop presence, and support for rebuilding infrastructure in conflict-affected areas can help create conditions for a sustainable peace. Additionally, establishing channels for dialog between Israel and Lebanon that include civil society representatives could foster understanding and cooperation.
TNE: Speaking of civil society, how important is their role in the context of this ceasefire?
DMK: Civil society is crucial. They can be instrumental in bridging gaps between communities divided by decades of conflict. Initiatives aimed at reconciliation and dialog can help humanize each side’s narratives, ultimately fostering a community-level acceptance of peace. Encouraging grassroots movements to advocate for and monitor the ceasefire can also lead to more robust accountability.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Klein. This has been an insightful discussion about a complex issue that has far-reaching implications. As we look forward, what do you think will be the biggest challenge ahead for both Israel and Lebanon in maintaining this ceasefire?
DMK: The biggest challenge will likely be ensuring political will on both sides amid internal pressures and regional dynamics. Fostering a real commitment to peace from Hezbollah and Israeli political factions might prove difficult, especially in the presence of hardliners on both ends. Additionally, the socio-economic issues in Lebanon, exacerbated by the conflict, need to be addressed to stabilize the region fully.
TNE: Wise words, Dr. Klein. We appreciate your expertise and insights into this pressing issue. Thank you for joining us today.
DMK: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a peaceful resolution that leads to lasting stability in the region.
TNE: And thank you to our viewers for tuning in. Remember to follow Time.news for more updates on global affairs. Until next time!
