Originally published at National Catholic Register
In the early hours of Nov. 27, citizens of Israel and Lebanon embraced hope that the newly-agreed-upon cease-fire between their nations would hold and usher in a prolonged period of peace and stability between the two countries.
Brokered by the United States and France, the 60-day cessation of hostilities calls for the government of Lebanon to prevent the Iran-backed militia Hezbollah, considered by the U.S. an international terror organization, from operating in south Lebanon and attacking Israel. Israel has agreed to gradually remove its troops from south Lebanon and abide by the cease-fire, provided Hezbollah does the same.
But in recent days, Hezbollah and Israel have accused each other of breaking the agreement. Hezbollah has been relocating its weapons and has launched projectiles (likely armed drones) at Israel, and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) struck what it calls Hezbollah “terror targets” in south Lebanon, the IDF said. According to the cease-fire, Israel has the right to prevent Hezbollah from operating in south Lebanon.
Until all hostilities cease permanently, tens of thousands of displaced Israelis and Lebanese will not be able to return to their homes. Many homes on both sides of the border have been destroyed or severely damaged.
