ALBAWABA - According to Israeli and American media, President Joe Biden will proclaim a truce between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon tonight. After weeks of diplomatic attempts by the Biden administration to cease Lebanon hostilities, the news is expected.
The White House said Biden is committed to a ceasefire, noting discussions progress. Israel's security cabinet is debating the accord, with an announcement expected later today and implementation possible tomorrow.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may get cabinet approval for the arrangement without government involvement. Sources say Netanyahu will pitch the pact as a vital measure to prevent a UN-mandated truce, which may harm Israel.
An Israeli official called the truce "delicate but strategically advantageous," noting that it was transitory. The truce might last days to years, depending on regular evaluations.
A Lebanese government source told Al Jazeera that ministers will consider the ceasefire accord in a cabinet meeting tomorrow. Only if Israel agrees will the session proceed. The UN Resolution 1701-based accord is proposed for staggered implementation over 60 days by a five-member international monitoring committee.
The accord has angered Israeli hardliners. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir branded the ceasefire a "critical error," warning Hezbollah may use it to develop its military. Benny Gantz, the opposition leader, worried that retreating now would allow Hezbollah to regroup. However, Yair Lapid endorsed the plan, emphasizing the need for political resolutions alongside military action.
Israel has increased airstrikes on Beirut and ground offensives in the south since September 23, 2024. These acts followed a year of hostilities starting in October 2023.
Lebanon claims the fighting has killed 3,750, injured 15,626, and displaced 1.4 million people, including many women and children.
