Ceasefire Agreement Reached in Lebanon Among Continuous Tensions

Signed today at 10:00 a.m. Beirut time, a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah marks the end of almost two months of intensive conflict and over a year of cross-border skirmishes. The agreement calls for the Lebanese army to be sent into southern Lebanon and Israeli forces to be pulled out of there.

After months of intense bombings on Lebanon, Israel's cabinet approved the deal. Still, fighting persisted until the very last minute, with further Israeli airstrikes hitting Beirut and other regions yesterday. Later today, the Parliament of Lebanon is scheduled to convene to review and perhaps approve the accord.

Previously demanding a stop to Israeli aggression and guarantees of Lebanon's sovereignty, Hezbollah had clearly stated criteria for any peace. Tensions remain high even with the ceasefire since both sides accuse one another of wreaking havoc in the war.

The truce has spurred political criticism in Israel. Saying, "Netanyahu's cabinet has been dragged into an agreement with Hezbollah," opposition leader Yair Lapid charged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of mishandling the matter. The army is tired; northern cities are in ruins and people's life have collapsed.

With thousands of people displaced and vital infrastructure destroyed, the war has brought about tremendous devastation in Lebanon. Although the ceasefire gives optimism for stability, it is yet unknown if it will bring about enduring peace.