A ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, including the militant group Hezbollah, has been implemented and appears to be holding as of this morning. This marks the first time in nearly 14 months that residents on both sides of the border are returning home instead of fleeing from conflict. The ceasefire has brought a sense of hope to families in Southern Lebanon, who are eager to return after prolonged displacement due to war.

Lebanese soldiers have begun to secure the borders, a crucial step in the ceasefire's implementation. In Hezbollah's stronghold in Southern Beirut, celebrations have erupted despite the destruction left by the conflict. The United Nations reports that Israeli airstrikes have damaged or destroyed approximately 25,000 homes, leaving many displaced individuals with nowhere to return.

On the Israeli side, soldiers are patrolling areas that are no longer under rocket fire, while Israeli commanders plan a phased withdrawal, claiming a form of victory after significant losses to Hezbollah's leadership. However, skepticism remains among the over 60,000 Israelis who fled their homes last October, with concerns that Hezbollah may rebuild its forces.

The ceasefire agreement stipulates that Israel will withdraw its forces and that the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) will deploy to the south within 60 days, with Hezbollah fighters moving north of the Litani River. Amos Hochstein, President Biden's special envoy who led the negotiations, confirmed that the ceasefire is currently holding, with minor incidents expected on the first day.

A key aspect of the agreement is the establishment of a monitoring mechanism co-chaired by U.S. military and civilian officials to address violations from both sides. Hochstein emphasized that the U.S. has been a significant supporter of the LAF, which is expected to secure southern Lebanon with an initial deployment of around 5,000 troops, gradually increasing to 10,000 over time.

Concerns about Hezbollah's political strength and the LAF's ability to assert control were raised, but Hochstein noted that Hezbollah is currently weakened, presenting an opportunity for the Lebanese state to strengthen its sovereignty. The agreement also aims to curb Iranian influence and arms supplies to Hezbollah, with the Lebanese state expected to take control of border crossings to prevent unauthorized movements.

As the situation develops, the international community will be watching closely to see if the ceasefire can lead to lasting peace and stability in the region.