Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire Takes Effect, Bringing Temporary Halt to Hostilities

Beirut [ Lebanon ], April 17 (ANI): Celebrations broke out across Beirut as a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon came into force, with fireworks and celebratory gunfire lighting up the night sky, CNN reported. Local media reported heavy gunfire in Beirut 's southern suburbs, a known Hezbollah stronghold, as visuals showed red flares illuminating the skyline shortly after midnight, as per CNN. The ceasefire, which began at 5 p.m. ET, has temporarily halted hostilities and is aimed at creating space for diplomatic engagement. According to CNN, the US State Department said the truce is "intended to enable good-faith negotiations toward a permanent security and peace agreement between Israel and Lebanon ." Earlier, the Israel i military said it carried out strikes on more than 380 Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon in the past 24 hours, as reported by CNN. According to the military, the strikes targeted launchers, headquarters, and militants to support ground operations in the region. It also stated that forces remain on "high alert" even as the ceasefire takes effect, CNN reported. Reacting to the development, Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran is approaching the truce "with caution," while Israel 's Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon described the situation as "complex", according to CNN. Iran's Foreign Ministry welcomed the ceasefire, linking it to broader diplomatic efforts involving the United States, Al Jazeera reported. According to Al Jazeera, spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said, "[Iran welcomes] the announcement of the ceasefire in Lebanon and noted that the cessation of the war in Lebanon was part of the ceasefire understanding between Iran and the United States, mediated by Pakistan." Meanwhile, Qatar also welcomed the development, calling it a step toward easing tensions in the region, Al Jazeera reported. Qatar 's Foreign Ministry said it welcomed "the announcement of the ceasefire in Lebanon and considers it an initial step toward de-escalation". The ministry stressed that it was a "necessity" for all parties to adhere to the terms of the truce to ensure stability and prevent further escalation, as per Al Jazeera. According to Al Jazeera, it also appreciated US President Donald Trump's mediation efforts, noting that they "contributed to reaching a ceasefire in Lebanon ." The ceasefire comes amid sustained conflict in southern Lebanon , with diplomatic efforts now focused on turning the 10-day truce into a longer-term peace arrangement. (ANI)