A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon came into effect early Wednesday, drawing responses from leaders across the globe.
US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron jointly praised the ceasefire, stating it would shield Israel from Hezbollah’s threats and lay the groundwork for enduring peace.
“The announcement today will cease the fighting in Lebanon, and secure Israel from the threat of Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations operating from Lebanon,” the leaders said in a statement. They also pledged to ensure the agreement’s implementation and lead efforts to bolster Lebanon’s army.
Biden called the ceasefire “good news” and announced a renewed push to negotiate a truce between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Macron expressed hope that the Lebanon agreement would pave the way for resolving the Gaza conflict.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude to President Biden for his role in brokering the agreement. Netanyahu stressed that Israel would retain “freedom of action” to enforce the truce. He noted the ceasefire’s duration depended on conditions in Lebanon, adding that the agreement would allow Israel to intensify pressure on Hamas while addressing threats from Iran.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati hailed the ceasefire as a vital step towards restoring regional stability. He thanked the US and France for their diplomatic efforts and reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to strengthening its military presence in the south.
Meanwhile, Iran, a staunch supporter of both Hezbollah and Hamas, welcomed the end of what it described as Israel’s aggression against Lebanon. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei reiterated Iran’s support for Lebanon’s government, people, and resistance.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock described the ceasefire as a ray of hope for the region, emphasising the importance of lasting security for both Lebanese and Israeli civilians. She called the agreement a triumph for diplomacy.
Furthermore, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer commended the “long overdue” ceasefire, expressing hope it would bring relief to civilians on both sides. He urged for the truce to evolve into a political resolution in Lebanon and pledged the UK’s support for sustainable peace in the Middle East.
Also, the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, called the ceasefire “very encouraging news,” highlighting its potential to improve Lebanon’s internal stability by curbing Hezbollah’s influence. She underscored its significance for those most affected by the violence.
Finally, the UN welcomed the agreement but cautioned that full commitment from both parties was essential for its success. UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, stressed that implementing the deal would require significant effort.
