Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire: A Step Towards Regional Stability

Why in the news?

A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah began, echoing the 2006 agreement, aiming to reduce hostilities, with international oversight to ensure adherence and prevent simultaneous conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.

Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire: A Step Towards Regional Stability

Details of the Ceasefire:

  • A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon commenced, resembling the framework of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 (2006).
  • Hezbollah will withdraw to north of the Litani River, Israel to south of the Blue Line, with only the Lebanese Army permitted in the buffer zone.
  • Both parties are given 60 days to withdraw to their designated positions.
  • The ceasefire involves the United States and France in a supervisory role alongside Lebanon, Israel, and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

Reasons for Israel’s Agreement

  • Strategic Shift: Focus on neutralizing Iran’s influence and replenishing Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) resources.
  • Front Separation: Aim to prevent simultaneous escalations with Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
  • Military Strain: Prolonged engagement in Lebanon risked IDF overstretch and increased Hezbollah’s domestic support.
  • Hezbollah retained significant military capacity, with extensive rocket strikes continuing before the ceasefire, highlighting the risks of protracted conflict.

Regional Implications

  • The ceasefire echoes the post-2006 scenario, with the Lebanese Army maintaining the buffer zone, but with stronger international oversight.
  • Iran’s acquiescence to U.S. involvement reflects its strategic focus on sanctions relief and regional diplomacy.
  • Israel can now concentrate on operations in Gaza and other Iranian proxies in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen.
  • Stability remains uncertain, with Hezbollah retaining a strong socio-political presence and potential for renewed tensions.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times