U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that the leaders of Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a 10-day ceasefire, which took effect from 17:00 EST on 16 April. There was no mention in Trump's statement of Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group in Lebanon, but he urged them to abide by the ceasefire.
The terms specify that the ceasefire lasts for 10 days with the possibility of extension if negotiations are fruitful. Key points include Israel retaining its right to self-defense and Lebanon needing to prevent attacks from Hezbollah and other non-state groups. This agreement is viewed as a gesture of goodwill by Israel intended to facilitate ongoing negotiations toward a lasting peace.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu labeled the ceasefire as an opportunity for a historic peace agreement, while Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam hopes it will allow displaced individuals to return home. Hezbollah has indicated a willingness to participate in the ceasefire, contingent upon a broader halt to attacks across Lebanon.
International responses have been welcoming, with UN Secretary General António Guterres praising the U.S. for its role and urging all parties to comply with international law. As negotiations continue, Israel has established a buffer zone within Lebanon to safeguard its northern communities.
