Ahead of a key vote by Israel’s security cabinet on a ceasefire agreement with Lebanon’s Hezbollah, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning to the United Nations’ Lebanon envoy, Janine Hennis-Plasschaert. Katz emphasized that any violation of the impending ceasefire would lead Israel to respond “forcefully.” He told the envoy in a meeting in Tel Aviv, “If you do not act, we will do it, forcefully,” adding that Israel would maintain “zero tolerance” when defending its security interests.
The ceasefire deal, which is set for approval later today, is seen as a crucial step toward ending the violent conflict that has raged for 14 months, triggered by the Gaza war. Thousands of lives have been lost since Hezbollah joined the fighting. Israel’s security cabinet is expected to approve the ceasefire plan, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu leading the session.
The agreement calls for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon, while Lebanon’s army would be deployed to the region, an area traditionally controlled by Hezbollah, within 60 days. In return, Hezbollah would end its armed presence south of the Litani River, the area along the border with Israel.
A key component of the deal involves effective UN enforcement of the ceasefire. Israel has made it clear that it will not tolerate any violations, ensuring the protection of its security interests and enabling the return of displaced residents in northern Israel. The US and France are expected to announce the ceasefire agreement once Israel’s approval is secured.
Despite signs of a potential diplomatic breakthrough, the situation remains tense. Israeli airstrikes continued on Tuesday, targeting Hezbollah-controlled areas in southern Beirut, while Hezbollah has maintained its rocket fire into Israel. The ongoing violence has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, with over 1 million displaced in Lebanon and many left homeless, just as winter approaches.
In northern Israel, the ceasefire would allow around 60,000 residents who fled their homes due to Hezbollah’s rocket attacks to return, bringing some relief after a year of conflict.
