A 10-day ceasefire brokered by international mediators went into effect in southern Lebanon early Thursday, temporarily halting months of escalating cross-border exchanges between Hezbollah militants and the Israeli military.
The agreement comes after particularly intense fighting over the past week that displaced thousands of civilians on both sides of the border. UN officials confirmed both parties had ceased hostilities as of 6:00 AM local time.
“This pause provides critical humanitarian relief,” a senior UN official told reporters on condition of anonymity, noting plans to deliver aid to affected villages. The official cautioned that the ceasefire remains “fragile” and called for diplomatic efforts to secure a longer-term solution.
The conflict zone has seen near-daily rocket attacks and airstrikes since October 2023, marking the most serious escalation since the 2006 Lebanon War. Analysts estimate over 150 combatant deaths and dozens of civilian casualties.
Regional security sources suggest the truce may allow for prisoner exchange negotiations. However, Israeli defense officials maintain they will “respond decisively to any violations,” according to a military spokesperson.
The ceasefire’s expiration on April 1 coincides with the start of Ramadan, raising concerns about renewed violence during the holy month if no broader agreement is reached.