Lebanon Embraces Fragile Peace as Hezbollah-Israel Ceasefire Takes Hold

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BEIRUT, LEBANON – A sense of relief has swept across Lebanon as a ceasefire agreement between Hezbollah and Israel brings an end to weeks of escalating conflict. Thousands of displaced residents have begun returning to their homes in southern Lebanon, though signs of destruction serve as a grim reminder of the violence. The ceasefire comes after intense negotiations, with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri playing a key role in facilitating talks with international mediators. While the truce has brought temporary stability, Israel has warned it will respond decisively to any breaches by Hezbollah.

Scenes of jubilation were witnessed as returning families celebrated with car horns blaring and spontaneous gatherings in town squares. Yet, for many, the joy of homecoming is tempered by the sobering reality of rebuilding lives and communities from the ruins left by the conflict. One resident described returning to southern Lebanon as "an indescribable feeling," crediting the leadership of Lebanese negotiators in securing peace. However, Israeli forces have maintained a curfew in some areas, citing security concerns, which has left returning residents cautious about what lies ahead. The international community has largely welcomed the ceasefire. Iran, a key supporter of Hezbollah, praised the agreement and called for similar diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in Gaza. As Lebanon steps into this delicate phase of reconstruction and healing, the nation remains hopeful that the fragile peace will hold, allowing it to emerge stronger from the shadows of war.