Ceasefire Agreement Between Hezbollah and Israel Takes Effect

Ceasefire Agreement Between Hezbollah and Israel Takes Effect
November 27, 2024, 11:41 am

المعبر الحدودي اللبناني مع سوريا

As the ceasefire agreement between Hezbollah and Israel came into effect this morning, Lebanese Defense Minister Maurice Sleem stated that any talk of Israel's freedom of movement within Lebanon contradicts the provisions outlined in the 13-point agreement, which does not address this issue.

In a statement prior to the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Sleem emphasized that the agreement stipulates both parties' right to self-defense. He asserted that the Lebanese Army will take all necessary measures to implement the agreement and that the Army will be a fundamental pillar in all the steps that will be undertaken.

Regarding the timing of the Army's implementation of the deployment plan, Sleem mentioned, "This plan will be discussed today in the Cabinet, and the Army Commander will present a comprehensive overview of all phases." He confirmed that the Army will increase its numbers gradually.

In a related context, Israeli officials have recently reiterated that Israel has the right to take action should any violations of the agreement occur, a point that presents an issue of contention as it represents a breach of Lebanese sovereignty.

The Israeli Army also stated earlier today that it is prepared to act against any party attempting to breach the agreement, which has an initial duration of 60 days. Media sources indicated that a side message from the United States has assured Israel's right to respond to threats originating from Lebanese territory according to international law. It also noted that the Israeli side retains the right to act at any time against violations in southern Lebanon.

Notably, the Israeli security cabinet approved the ceasefire agreement last night. Among the key provisions of the 13-point agreement are a phased ceasefire lasting two months, during which the Israeli military will gradually withdraw from border villages, and the deployment of approximately 5,000 Lebanese soldiers in these areas, enhancing their presence as they are already stationed in several locations. Additionally, the agreement mandates the withdrawal of all armed groups, notably Hezbollah, with oversight from an international committee led by the United States.

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