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French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot on Monday urged his Israeli counterpart, Gideon Saar, to respect the ceasefire recently established between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. During a telephone interview, Mr. Barrot stressed “the need for all parties to respect the ceasefire in Lebanon”, following several Israeli strikes that have occurred in Lebanon since the truce came into force on Wednesday. last.
Background to the ceasefire
On November 27, 2024, a ceasefire, brokered by the United States and France, came into effect between Israel and Hezbollah, ending nearly 14 months of conflict. This agreement provides for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon over a period of 60 days, while Hezbollah must move its fighters north of the Litani River. An international commission, chaired by the United States, is responsible for overseeing the implementation of this agreement.
Alleged ceasefire violations
Despite the agreement, incidents were reported. On November 28, the Israeli army opened fire on “suspects” detected in several areas of southern Lebanon, claiming these were ceasefire violations. Hezbollah has accused Israel of attacking civilians returning to their border villages.
International reactions
The international community reacted to these developments. US President Joe Biden welcomed the ceasefire agreement, calling it a “significant step towards peace” and stressed the need for its full implementation.
For its part, Iran welcomed the truce, while distinguishing it from the Israeli offensive against Hamas in Gaza.
Humanitarian situation in Lebanon
The conflict has had devastating humanitarian consequences in Lebanon, with more than 3,700 deaths and more than a million people displaced. The ceasefire has allowed thousands of displaced people to return to their homes, although many find their homes destroyed.
Reconstruction efforts are underway, but the challenges remain immense.
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