Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Tuesday that he was prepared to implement a ceasefire agreement with Lebanon, emphasizing that Israel would respond forcefully to any violations by Hezbollah.
In a televised address, Netanyahu confirmed that the deal would be presented to Israel’s full cabinet later in the evening after the security cabinet had already approved it. The ceasefire is set to take effect on Wednesday, bringing hope for an end to the conflict that has claimed thousands of lives.
“We will enforce the agreement and respond forcefully to any violation. Together, we will continue until victory,” Netanyahu declared. He also affirmed that Israel would maintain “complete military freedom of action,” vowing decisive strikes should Hezbollah rearm or break the ceasefire terms.
Hezbollah, supported by Iran and aligned with Hamas, has been significantly weakened, Netanyahu stated, citing Israel’s successful efforts to neutralize key leaders and destroy most of the group’s rockets and missiles.
The ceasefire agreement will require Israeli forces to withdraw from southern Lebanon, with the Lebanese army taking control of the region. Hezbollah is also expected to end its armed presence south of the Litani River.
However, despite the diplomatic breakthrough, violence continues as Israeli airstrikes intensify across Lebanon. On Tuesday, at least 18 people were reported killed in Beirut as Israeli forces targeted Hezbollah strongholds in the city.
While the deal with Lebanon progresses, there is no indication that it will speed up a ceasefire or hostage release agreement in Gaza, where Israeli forces are battling Hamas.
The UN expressed growing concern over the escalating violence, with nearly 100 people killed in recent Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon. Netanyahu, however, emphasized that the ceasefire would help isolate Hamas and address the larger threat posed by Iran’s influence in the region.
The continuing escalation has left more than 3,750 dead in Lebanon, with over one million displaced. On the Israeli side, Hezbollah’s strikes have killed at least 45 civilians, while Israeli forces have lost 73 soldiers in the conflict.