Netanyahu Announces Ceasefire in Lebanon: Key Details and Reactions

On Tuesday evening, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation regarding the approval of a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah, just before the Israeli cabinet gave its approval. The ceasefire was set to be implemented on Wednesday at 10 a.m. local time.

In his speech, Netanyahu provided a summary of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) operations across Gaza, Lebanon, the West Bank, and Syria. He reaffirmed Israel's strong stance on Hezbollah, noting that the organization had suffered significant setbacks, including the elimination of key leaders and the destruction of much of its rocket capabilities.

Netanyahu emphasized that Israel reserves the right to use military force if Hezbollah violates the ceasefire or attempts to rearm.

The prime minister highlighted the reasons for the ceasefire, including focusing on the Iranian threat, replenishing Israeli forces, and isolating Hamas. He outlined the key points of the agreement, including a cessation of hostilities, Lebanese Army control of border crossings, and a gradual IDF withdrawal over 60 days.

However, the announcement sparked mixed reactions. Netanyahu's remarks to northern Israeli local authorities revealed that they would not be able to return to their homes immediately, as the ceasefire lasts for only 60 days. In the lead-up to the speech, anti-ceasefire demonstrators took to the streets, with some calling for a complete victory over Hezbollah before peace is considered.

Following the ceasefire’s activation, residents of southern Lebanon who had evacuated in recent months began returning to their homes. However, the Lebanese military requested that people delay their return until IDF forces had withdrawn from the area. IDF spokespersons issued warnings to residents, advising them not to return to villages where the IDF was still deployed for their safety.