A cease-fire between Israel and the Iran-backed group Hezbollah in Lebanon is holding after it came into effect at 4 a.m. local time Wednesday, ending over a year of fighting. President Joe Biden had confirmed Tuesday that both countries had accepted the deal.
The deal involves a two-month period for Israel to withdraw from southern Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu supported the agreement, emphasizing it would help Israel focus on the Iran threat and give its military a break.
The truce will also allow the country to isolate Hamas in Gaza.
Meanwhile, Lebanese security forces will deploy in the region. Hezbollah fighters are also expected to retreat 25 miles from the Israel-Lebanon border.
Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati welcomed the agreement, hoping for calm and stability.
Tensions remain, with Israeli leaders warning of a strong response if Hezbollah violates the cease-fire.