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Israel and Lebanon launch ten-day ceasefire

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Israel and Lebanon launch ten-day ceasefire

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Israel and Lebanon will begin a 10-day ceasefire at 5 p.m. EST (2100 GMT) on Thursday to allow negotiations on a permanent security and peace agreement, the U.S. State Department announced. The truce, which can be extended by mutual consent, aims to create conditions for talks after Israel’s military campaign in Lebanon emerged as a major obstacle to a broader peace deal sought by U.S. President Donald Trump to end the war on Iran he launched with Israel in late February. That conflict has disrupted the global energy trade, driven up oil prices and raised concerns over wider economic fallout. Lebanon will move to prevent Hezbollah and all other non-state armed groups on its territory from carrying out attacks against Israel once the ceasefire takes effect, according to the text of the agreement released by the U.S. State Department. The accord states that Lebanon’s security forces have exclusive responsibility for the country’s sovereignty and national defense, and that no other country or group can claim to guarantee Lebanon’s sovereignty. Israel may take necessary measures in self-defense against planned, imminent or ongoing attacks but has agreed not to conduct offensive operations in Lebanon during the 10-day period, while both countries pursue U.S.-facilitated direct talks, including on demarcating their international land border, and affirm that they are not at war.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Late February Israel and United States launch Iran offensive
Recent months Israeli campaign intensifies inside Lebanon
This week U.S. mediators finalize ceasefire text
Thursday 5 p.m. EST ceasefire takes effect
During ten days Lebanon restricts non-state armed groups
During ten days Israel suspends offensive Lebanon operations
During ceasefire United States facilitates bilateral negotiations
Subsequently parties may extend ceasefire by agreement

Why This Matters to You

This ceasefire affects your wallet. The ongoing conflict has spiked oil prices and disrupted the global energy trade. If the ceasefire holds and negotiations progress, you might see a dip in gas prices. Keep an eye on your local gas station.

The Bottom Line

This ceasefire is a step towards stability, but it's not a guarantee. It's a chance for peace talks and border negotiations. If successful, it could ease tensions and impact global oil prices. Worth forwarding if you know someone feeling the pinch at the pump.