A ceasefire between the Israeli and Lebanese governments, including the militant group Hezbollah, took effect early this morning and appears to be holding, marking a significant moment for residents on both sides of the border after nearly 14 months of conflict. For the first time in over a year, families are returning to their homes instead of fleeing from violence.

In southern Lebanon, a sense of hope permeates the atmosphere as displaced families rush back to their residences. Lebanese soldiers are actively deploying to the borders, a crucial step in implementing the ceasefire. Celebrations erupted in Hezbollah's stronghold in southern Beirut, where supporters claim victory despite the heavy toll of the conflict. The United Nations reports that Israeli airstrikes have damaged or destroyed nearly 25,000 homes, leaving many residents with no place to stay.

On the Israeli side, soldiers patrol areas that are no longer under threat of rocket fire. Israeli commanders are planning a withdrawal, asserting that they have significantly weakened Hezbollah by eliminating much of its leadership and removing weapons from the border region. However, skepticism remains among the more than 60,000 Israelis who fled their homes last October, with concerns that Hezbollah may regroup.

The ceasefire agreement stipulates that Israel will withdraw and the Lebanese Armed Forces will deploy within 60 days, while Hezbollah is required to move its fighters north of the Litani River, approximately 17 miles from the border.

Amos Hochstein, President Biden's special envoy who led the negotiations, confirmed that the ceasefire is currently holding, with only minor incidents reported on the first day. As the situation develops, the international community watches closely to see if this fragile peace can be sustained.