Daily Times

The ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel, two longstanding rivals, was welcomed by the people of South Lebanon, who soon after the ceasefire was announced, headed towards their homes. The ceasefire offers a critical pause in a prolonged aggression of Israel that has wreaked havoc on civilian lives in occupied Palestine and Lebanon. Thousands of displaced people now have a chance to return to their homes. There are reports that Israeli forces have yet to vacate the Lebanese village even though the agreement was brokered by international forces, mainly the US and France. They should force Israel for military withdrawals. The agreement, though mainly favours Israel, lays the groundwork for restoring stability in the region.

This truce is not a political win for Hezbollah, which suffered due to its internal intelligence weaknesses. The ceasefire is a chance to rebuild Lebanon areas which were bombed live on TV channels and in violation of international laws. Civilians who endured immense suffering can start reclaiming their lives. This moment also showcases the power of diplomacy when nations and organisations prioritise dialogue over division. The involvement of external mediators played a key role in ending hostilities and ensuring a mechanism for future stability.

Now when guns are silent after the ceasefire, coming days will tell if Israel is committed to the agreement or not. The deal is fraught with challenges. The history of such agreements between Israel and Hezbollah hardly weather the regional conflicts. Furthermore, while one conflict ends, others continue, exposing the limitations of regional peace efforts. The focus on rebuilding must not overshadow the urgent need to address unresolved tensions that fuel violence.

While Lebanon will come to normalcy in days, another part of the region, gaza, remains under unrelenting aggression. Calls for peace are repeatedly flouted by Israel, leaving displaced families without hope of safety or return. Despite international pressure, Israel continues killing civilians, mainly children and women, showcasing a blatant disregard for humanitarian principles. This double standard must be condemned firmly and universally.

Ultimately, a true resolution requires addressing the root causes of these conflicts. Unless Palestinians are not granted an independent state with pre-1967 border points and unless Israel is not held accountable for its war crime, such ceasefires will be brokered and materialized and flouted. Ceasefires, though necessary, remain temporary fixes; lasting peace lies in addressing the issue of Palestine. *