Israel agreed to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah in Lebanon in November 2024, signaling a significant shift in their protracted conflict that had escalated for 14 months. This decision was determined by military achievements, strategic realignments, and international diplomatic pressures.
Military Objectives Met
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cited Hezbollah’s successful militarization as one of the key reasons behind accepting a ceasefire agreement. Israeli forces had successfully eliminated key leaders and dismantled significant portions of its infrastructure during this operation, reaching many of their objectives and leading Netanyahu to emphasize that Hezbollah “no longer presents as it once did,” suggesting it has significantly been diminished since starting its conflict against them.
Strategic Refocusing
The ceasefire provides Israel an opportunity to redirect its military efforts toward other pressing concerns, notably Gaza and Iran’s perceived threat. Prime Minister Netanyahu underscored this shift by noting how Israel will focus efforts primarily on these areas during this ceasefire – including Gaza war, as well as any potential Iranian threats – rather than any further military engagements against Hamas or Hezbollah.
Domestic and International Aspects Are Concurrent
Domestically, the conflict had put Israeli military resources and public morale under strain. Reservists within Israel Defense Forces were experiencing fatigue as logistical challenges increased. Internationally, both France and the U.S. played pivotal roles in mediating a ceasefire agreement; U.S. Envoy Amos Hochstein served as mediator, helping negotiate talks between Israeli and Lebanese leaders for negotiations to begin between the parties to bring peace into the region and prevent further escalation. This agreement marked another diplomatic success under Biden administration which aimed at stabilizing region while preventing further escalation.
Ceasefire Provisions The ceasefire agreement, effective November 27, 2024, contains several key provisions:
Both Israel and Hezbollah reached an understanding to cease offensive operations against one another.
Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) will serve as the only military presence in southern Lebanon.
Israel pledged a phased withdrawal from Lebanonese territory within 60 days, in coordination with LAF deployment.
The United States and France intend to support and monitor LAF capabilities through a triangular mechanism involving Israel, Lebanon, and UNIFIL.
Conclusion
Israel’s decision to agree to the Lebanon ceasefire was calculated, taking into account military achievements, strategic priorities and diplomatic pressures. By creating a temporary cessation in hostilities, Israel hopes to consolidate gains achieved against other regional threats while responding to international calls for de-escalation.