Israel and Lebanon Enter 10-Day Ceasefire Amid International Calls for Compliance
Israel and Lebanon have commenced a 10-day ceasefire, with international leaders urging all parties to adhere to the truce and engage in negotiations.
Israel and Lebanon have initiated a 10-day ceasefire, effective from April 16, 2026, following mediation efforts led by U.S. President Donald Trump. The agreement aims to halt hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, which have resulted in significant casualties and displacement in Lebanon.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the ceasefire as a "historic" opportunity for peace but stated that Israeli forces would remain in southern Lebanon during the truce. He emphasized the need to prevent potential invasions and attacks on Israel.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the ceasefire and urged all parties to fully respect it, expressing hope that the halt in fighting would pave the way for negotiations.
Despite the ceasefire, the Lebanese army cautioned displaced residents against returning to southern Lebanon due to reports of intermittent shelling. Similarly, the Israeli military advised residents not to return south of the Litani River.
Hezbollah has indicated that its fighters will remain prepared to respond if the ceasefire is violated. A senior Hezbollah official stated that the group would not recognize or be bound by any agreements emerging from U.S.-hosted negotiations between Lebanon and Israel.
The ceasefire follows a period of intense conflict that has resulted in over 2,100 Lebanese fatalities and displaced more than 2.1 million people. International leaders continue to call for adherence to the truce and the pursuit of diplomatic solutions to achieve lasting peace in the region.
