Israel prepares to approve ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah amid bombings
- Israeli airstrikes continue in Beirut, targeting Hezbollah strongholds as tensions escalate.
- A ceasefire deal proposed by the U.S. and France is expected to be approved by Israel's security cabinet.
- The ceasefire could lead to significant changes along the Israel-Lebanon border, despite ongoing opposition from hardline factions.
Israel has intensified airstrikes in Lebanon, particularly targeting Hezbollah positions in the southern suburbs of Beirut. As the country grapples with over a year of conflict, which began following Hamas's cross-border assault into Israel on October 7, 2023, there are growing calls for a ceasefire. The United States and France have brokered a proposed deal that includes a temporary halt to hostilities, requiring Hezbollah to withdraw its forces from regions south of the Litani River and allowing Lebanese army troops to deploy in these areas within 60 days. Despite significant casualties on both sides, diplomatic efforts have gained momentum, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expected to present the agreement to his security cabinet for approval. If passed, this ceasefire could allow thousands displaced in Israel's northern regions to return to their homes amidst ongoing fears of renewed violence from Hezbollah, which is being urged to cease its attacks. However, hardline elements within the Israeli government express concerns over such a deal as they believe it represents a missed opportunity to eradicate Hezbollah's influence in Lebanon. The potential for further escalation remains, as air raids continue and the political landscape remains fraught with tension.