Photo: AA.
The decision of the Israeli military and political cabinet to establish a ceasefire with Hizbullah comes into force at 4:00 am on Wednesday, 27 October. The agreement was approved after intensive negotiations with the support of the United States, with 10 ministers voting in favour and one against. This was reported by Time Ukraine Israel, citing Newsru.
The press service of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stressed that the country is grateful to the United States for its participation in the process and reserves the right to defend itself in the event of any threats. Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir expressed his disagreement with the ruling.
US response: a course for stability
In his address to the nation, US President Joe Biden announced: “I have good news from the Middle East. I have held talks with the Prime Ministers of Israel and Lebanon, and both have confirmed their acceptance of the ceasefire proposal between Israel and Hizbullah.” Biden stressed that Israel retains the right to self-defence, but must respect Lebanon’s sovereignty, creating an opportunity for a fresh start for the country.
Biden also expressed concern about the situation in the Gaza Strip, noting that Hamas must make a choice: the only way to end the conflict is to release hostages and end hostilities. According to the US president, the administration will continue to work with Egypt, Turkey and Qatar to achieve peace in the region. In addition, Biden reaffirmed his intention to continue efforts to normalise relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia, which would be a historic step for the entire Middle East.
Netanyahu’s statement: readiness to defend and hope for peace
In an evening speech on 26 November, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel would abide by the ceasefire agreement, but warned that the war would end only with the return of all hostages. Netanyahu addressed the residents of Israel’s northern regions, expressing pride in their resilience and courage. He reported significant achievements in the operation against Hezbollah, including the destruction of a large number of weapons and terrorist infrastructure. According to him, the prime minister’s main goal is to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, and the fight against this issue will continue.
Netanyahu stressed that the agreement allows Israel to ensure freedom of action in the event of threats, including in Lebanon. He warned that any attempt to resume terrorist activities or weapons production would be met with an immediate response from Israel.
Motives for the deal: strategic weakening of Hezbollah
Netanyahu explained that the decision to sign the agreement with Lebanon was based on several factors: the significant weakening of Hizbullah, the reduction of its ability to supply weapons to terrorists, and the achievement of the key objectives of the operation. Israel, in his opinion, managed not only to cut off Hizbullah’s support, but also to undermine the unity of anti-Israeli forces.
Today, Israel is on the verge of a new ceasefire agreement, while maintaining its determination to defend its borders and citizens.
