The fragile cease-fires in Lebanon and Gaza were tested on Sunday. In southern Lebanon, Israeli forces killed scores of people, according to Lebanese officials. In Gaza, Israel prevented Palestinians from returning to their homes, citing Hamas' violation of the truce terms.
However, by the end of the day, both Israel and Hamas announced that understandings had been reached through mediators to resolve their dispute.
In Lebanon, the White House issued a statement indicating that the initial 60-day truce, which called for the full withdrawal of Israeli troops from the southern part of the country by Sunday, would be extended until February 18.
Negotiators had hoped that the cease-fire in Lebanon, signed in November, would become permanent, securing a measure of calm in the turbulent region. Thousands of Lebanese displaced by the war have begun returning to their homes.
8 Comments
Michelangelo
The statement from the White House gives a sense of hope for the future of the region.
Leonardo
Extending the truce only delays the inevitable violence. Peace needs to be genuine, not temporary.
Raphael
How can we trust a process that allows for such horrendous loss of life in the name of 'peace'?
Donatello
We can't celebrate these so-called 'understandings' when the killing continues.
Raphael
Hamas may violate terms, but Israeli airstrikes are killing innocents. Where’s the accountability?
Eric Cartman
Mediators need to do a better job. These 'understandings' feel more like empty promises.
Donatello
It's encouraging to see both sides reaching an understanding, however fragile it may be.
Raphael
This conflict is not just about cease-fires; it's about fundamental rights and justice for all.