A fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah has held for a second day, despite minor violations on both sides, as the United Kingdom called for de-escalation to prevent a wider regional conflict. The truce, brokered by the United States and France, came into effect on Wednesday following a 14-month escalation of hostilities that displaced tens of thousands on both sides of the border.
The UK Foreign Office issued a statement urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint. "This ceasefire is a vital step toward stabilising the region. We continue to call for the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701," a spokesperson said, referring to the 2006 resolution that called for the disarmament of militias and the withdrawal of foreign forces from southern Lebanon.
Under the terms of the agreement, Israeli forces have begun a phased withdrawal from southern Lebanon, while Hezbollah has committed to moving its heavy weaponry north of the Litani River. The Lebanese Armed Forces, with support from UNIFIL, are deploying to the border area to enforce the buffer zone. However, analysts caution that Hezbollah retains significant capabilities in the region, including rocket stockpiles and tunnel networks.
On Thursday, the Israeli military reported that its forces had fired warning shots at vehicles that approached restricted areas near the border. Hezbollah has not commented on the incidents. No casualties have been reported.
"The situation remains precarious," said Dr. Tariq Khouri, a Beirut-based political analyst. "Hezbollah's political wing in Lebanon has accepted the deal, but its military wing is independent. Any miscalculation could unravel the truce."
The ceasefire is viewed as a significant diplomatic achievement for the Biden administration, which has sought to prevent a full-scale war as the conflict in Gaza continues. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that Israel would respond to any violation with force, but also emphasised the desire for stability on its northern border.
In Lebanon, the truce has brought a measure of relief to residents of the south, where Israeli airstrikes and Hezbollah rocket attacks had intensified in recent weeks. Schools and businesses have begun to reopen, but many remain cautious. "We are grateful for the quiet, but we know it could be temporary," said Ali Hassan, a shopkeeper in Tyre.
The UK's diplomatic push is part of a broader effort by Western powers to prevent the conflict from spilling over into Syria and Iraq, where Iranian-backed militias have also been active. The UK has also increased humanitarian aid to Lebanon, which is grappling with a severe economic crisis.
International observers warn that the ceasefire's durability depends on both sides respecting the terms and avoiding provocations. "The next few days will be critical," said a senior UNIFIL official, speaking on condition of anonymity. "Any major incident could undo the progress made."
