In its first official statement since the ceasefire, Hezbollah avoided mentioning the agreement directly but reaffirmed its readiness to confront Israel. The group pledged to monitor Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanon, claiming its fighters were prepared to act if necessary. Hezbollah has suffered significant setbacks during the conflict, including the loss of its leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah.
The conflict has killed at least 3,768 people in Lebanon, according to official health reports, and caused widespread destruction across the country. In response to Hezbollah rocket attacks that began in October 2023, Israel launched extensive strikes on Lebanese towns and cities, including Beirut’s southern suburbs.
In Israel, displaced residents have also begun returning to border areas. However, the scars of conflict remain evident. Asor Gal’it, returning to the border town of Metula, expressed mixed feelings:
“We heard some shots when we arrived, but we trust our army. Let’s hope for the best.”
Under the agreement, Israeli forces are allowed to remain in southern Lebanon for 60 days to ensure a smooth withdrawal. The Lebanese army, tasked with overseeing the truce, has begun deploying additional troops south of the Litani River, an area previously bombarded by Israeli forces.
Israeli military officials have warned that any breaches of the ceasefire will be met with swift action. Israel’s Chief of General Staff, Herzi Halevi, stated:
“Hezbollah operatives approaching our forces or border villages will be struck. We’re preparing for the possibility that this truce may not hold.”
While the truce has brought some relief to Lebanon, Gaza remains mired in conflict. Israel has vowed to continue its military campaign against Hamas, following the group’s deadly attacks on Israeli communities in October 2023.
U.S. President Joe Biden, speaking shortly after the ceasefire was approved by Israel, called it a step toward lasting peace:
“This agreement is designed to ensure that Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations can no longer threaten Israel’s security. Our efforts now focus on achieving a similar truce in Gaza.”
Meanwhile, many in Gaza feel abandoned. Displaced resident Malak Abu Laila expressed despair:
“We hope for mercy and a truce here because we are exhausted.”
The ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah has offered a glimmer of stability in a turbulent region. However, the challenges of rebuilding and ensuring lasting peace remain immense, particularly as violence continues in Gaza. For now, those returning home in Lebanon and Israel are left to rebuild their lives amid the ruins of war.
Photo/REUTERS/Aziz Taher