Reports from international news agencies and official military statements from either side

Hezbollah Declares 'Great Victory' as 60-Day Ceasefire with Israel Begins, Displaced Lebanese Return

Nov 29, 2024, 02:36 PM

A 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah began on Wednesday, allowing tens of thousands of displaced Lebanese, including those returning from Syria, to return to their homes in southern Lebanon and Beirut. The ceasefire, brokered by the U.S. and France, aims to end a 14-month conflict and foster Middle East diplomacy. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem declared a "great victory" over Israel, stating that it surpassed the group's 2006 victory. He pledged to coordinate closely with the Lebanese army to implement the ceasefire terms and strengthen Lebanon's defensive capabilities. Qassem thanked Iran, Syria, and other allies for their support. Despite the ceasefire, Israeli forces will remain in Lebanon for 60 days, and residents have been warned to avoid some areas due to potential dangers. Many returning residents found their homes damaged or destroyed by Israeli bombardments during the conflict.