Hezbollah began firing rockets into Israel (October 2023) in solidarity with Palestinians after the Israel-Hamas war started.
Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, stated they would only cease fire if Israel did the same in Gaza.
Israel launched its fourth invasion of Lebanon (October 2024), aiming to allow displaced residents of northern Israel to return home after Hezbollah’s rocket attacks.
A U.S. and France-mediated ceasefire was reached, with Israel withdrawing troops from Lebanon and Hezbollah redeploying north of the Litani River.
The Lebanese army would enforce the ceasefire in the border region.
Both sides claimed victory, but the reality is that both suffered significant losses:
Hezbollah: Lost many fighters and strongholds, including in southern Beirut.
Israel: Despite air superiority, made few territorial advances and faced strong resistance from Hezbollah.
The ceasefire could be short-lived if tensions continue, particularly if Israel’s actions in Gaza fuel further conflict.
The U.S. should use its influence to push for a broader ceasefire, including in Gaza, before President Biden’s term ends.
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