What's happened
Following a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, thousands of displaced individuals are returning to southern Lebanon. The truce, brokered by the U.S., aims to end 14 months of conflict, but concerns about its durability remain amid ongoing military tensions.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, thousands of people are returning to southern Lebanon after a ceasefire took effect, despite warnings from the Israeli military. The article notes that the ceasefire is a significant development following a year of conflict, with both sides eager to portray themselves as victorious. The New York Times highlights the ongoing military tensions, including Israeli shelling of southern villages, raising doubts about the ceasefire's durability. The Guardian also reports on the mixed reactions from Hezbollah, which vows to continue its resistance despite the truce. This contrast illustrates the complexities of the situation, where humanitarian needs clash with military realities.
How we got here
The ceasefire comes after a year of escalating violence between Israel and Hezbollah, which intensified following Hamas's attack on Israel in October 2023. The agreement includes a staged withdrawal of Israeli forces and a repositioning of Hezbollah's military assets.
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Lebanon, officially known as the Lebanese Republic, is a country in Western Asia. It is bordered by Syria to the north and east and Israel to the south, while Cyprus lies west across the Mediterranean Sea.