A ceasefire agreement between Israel, Lebanon, and Hezbollah appears imminent, with negotiations reportedly nearing resolution and Israeli officials already gearing up for a political battle to sell it to the public on Monday.
The emerging agreement is believed to include a ceasefire, Hezbollah’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon followed by the departure of Israeli troops from Lebanese territory.
“The test of any arrangement will be one – not in words or formulations, but in enforcement,” Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar tweeted. “Enforcement in two main points: 1. Preventing Hezbollah from descending south from the Litani. 2. Preventing Hezbollah from rebuilding its power and rearming in all of Lebanon.”
Cracks in the governing coalition emerged as National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir came out against a ceasefire. “The agreement with Lebanon is a big mistake. A historic missed opportunity to eradicate Hezbollah. I understand all the constraints and reasons, and it is still a grave mistake,” Ben-Gvir said.
Even as Hezbollah appears severely beaten, Israel is not relieved from ongoing self defense in the north. Israel must have freedom of military action to prevent Hezbollah from being able to rearm itself and to keep Southern Lebanon Hezbollah free. Defense is well and good, but we see no reason why Israel’s goal should not be VICTORY. Israel’s citizens need to be able to safely return to their homes. These ceasefire agreements need to be enforced. Who could be trusted to make sure all provisions of the agreement are abided by? We believe that Israel can only trust itself.