Israel’s Cabinet has approved the U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal between Israel and Hezbollah on Tuesday after prolonged negotiations.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had submitted the proposal to the Cabinet for approval on Tuesday evening, local time. The deal was approved 10-1, with only far-right minister Ben Gvir voting against the plan.
The deal then went into effect at 4 a.m. Wednesday, local time, as intended.
It went into effect five hours after the agreement was announced by Israel. Shortly after Israel shared the news, there was an announcement at the White House by President Joe Biden.
The Lebanese army and security forces will deploy in southern Lebanon over the next 60 days and take control of the territory controlled by Hezbollah, Biden said. At the same time, Israel will withdraw its forces over the next 60 days in order for civilians to return to their homes on both sides of the border.
In October, Israel invaded southern Lebanon in an escalation of the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group.