Israel agrees to ceasefire deal with Hezbollah amid ongoing airstrikes
- Israeli airstrikes targeted buildings in Beirut as negotiations for a ceasefire intensified.
- The proposed ceasefire includes a two-month halt in fighting and mutual troop withdrawals.
- The outcome of these talks could significantly impact regional stability and the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
On November 26, 2024, Israeli warplanes conducted extensive airstrikes across Beirut and southern Lebanon as discussions about a potential ceasefire with Hezbollah intensified. The Israeli military targeted multiple buildings in the capital, which were said to house Hezbollah operations, amidst a backdrop of rising conflict that began over a year ago. Following more than 3,760 deaths in Lebanon attributed to Israeli strikes and significant casualties on both sides, there is a growing urgency to establish peace. The proposed ceasefire, mediated by U.S. and French diplomats, aims to initiate a two-month halt in hostilities, during which both Israel and Hezbollah would retreat to pre-defined borders. The United Nations and international observers are involved in these negotiations, which include considerations for security guarantees and the future control of southern Lebanon. While some Israeli officials express willingness to pursue the deal, there remains internal opposition within Netanyahu's cabinet, especially from far-right ministers who fear it could allow Hezbollah to strengthen in the region. Concurrently, the European Union underscored the need for a ceasefire, emphasizing that Israel has no valid reasons to reject the proposed agreement.