Netanyahu Supports Preliminary Cease-Fire Agreement with Hezbollah
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that he will bring the cease-fire proposal to his Cabinet for a vote on Tuesday.
On Nov. 26, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his initial support for a U.S.-brokered cease-fire agreement in Lebanon that could potentially end almost 14 months of conflict with Hezbollah.
The initial details of the proposal outline a two-month pause in the fighting, with Hezbollah moving its fighters north of the Litani River in Lebanon, while Israeli forces retreat south to their side of the border. The specific terms of the cease-fire are yet to be disclosed, and the exact start date remains uncertain.
Netanyahu stated in a televised address that he will present the cease-fire proposal to his Cabinet members for a vote later that day.
He emphasized that the duration of the cease-fire depends on Lebanon’s compliance with the agreement. Israel reserves the right to strike Hezbollah if they violate the peace deal.
“If Hezbollah breaches the agreement by arming itself, we will respond. If it attempts to rebuild terrorist infrastructure near the border or launches attacks, we will take action,” he asserted.
Some members of Netanyahu’s cabinet have expressed opposition to the cease-fire negotiations, with National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir advocating for continued military action until Hezbollah is completely defeated.
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In response to the resistance, Netanyahu referenced how Israel resumed military operations against Hamas in Gaza after a previous cease-fire last November. He explained that a pause in fighting along the Israel–Lebanon border gives the opportunity for Israeli forces to rest, regroup, address the threat of Iran, and isolate Hamas.
Hezbollah initiated attacks on Israeli territory along the Israel–Lebanon border on Oct. 8, 2023, following Hamas’ attacks across southern Israel on Oct. 7. Hezbollah has vowed to continue fighting until Israel ceases its actions against Hamas in Gaza.
Netanyahu reassured that Israeli forces can continue their campaign in Gaza even with the implementation of the cease-fire plan in Lebanon.
“We will accomplish our mission of defeating Hamas, bringing our hostages home, eliminating the threat from Gaza, and ensuring the safety of northern residents,” he stated.
