Documentation of the Israeli abuse of power, mistreatment of humanity, and perpetration of the genocidal war on the Palestinian people in the  Gaza Strip.

*** 

Displaced Lebanese People Celebrate Return to their Towns, Following the Ceasefire Agreement, as the Death Toll Rose to 3,961 Martyrs and the Injuries to 16,520

by November 27, 2024

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Lebanese Ministry of Public Health announces final toll of Israeli aggression: 3,961 martyrs and 16,520 injuries

‎ Al-Manar,‎ November 28, 2024  

‎The Public Health Emergency Operations Center of the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health announced the detailed report on the repercussions of the Israeli aggression on Lebanon.‎

‎The report pointed out that the Israeli occupation apartheid regime raids last Tuesday (November 26, 2024) resulted in 78 martyrs and 266 wounded.

Thus, the total number of martyrs and wounded since the start of the aggression until Tuesday reached 3,961 martyrs and 16,520 wounded.‎

‎The report shows an increase in the number of martyrs as a result of the addition of martyrs being pulled from the rubble, as well as the start of the process of revising the data.‎

‎The Ministry pointed out that it has begun conducting a comprehensive review of all data, to include martyrs who are gradually being recovered from under the rubble, and all martyrs whose identities will be verified after completing their DNA tests, in addition to coordinating data with hospitals to ensure accurate and comprehensive numbers.‎

‎In the light of this review, the Ministry will subsequently issue a final report providing a comprehensive account of the casualties resulting from the Israeli aggression.‎

***

On Day 412 of US-Backed Israeli Genocidal War on Gaza Strip, 4 Massacres, 71 Palestinians Killed, 176 Injured, in the Past 24 Hours, with a Death Toll of  44,056 and 104,268 Injuries, by November 21, 2024

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A Lebanese family celebrates in Sayda, South Lebanon, after the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon went into effect, November 27, 2024.	A woman waves a 'Hizbullah flag, as she celebrates the ceasefire, which began early morning in Soor, South Lebanon, on November 27, 2024.
Repairing a bridge on the Syrian-Lebanese border, which was destroyed by an Israeli air strike, to allow displaced Lebanese people to return to their homes, November 27, 2024.	Displaced Lebanese in a traffic jam, during their return to Al-Ghaziya, South Lebanon, after the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon went into effect, on November 27, 2024.
Scenes of the mass destruction inflicted on the southern suburb of Beirut, Al-Dha'hiya, by the Israeli genocidal air strikes, November 27, 2024.	After nearly two months of displacement, Lebanese citizens return to their homes in Soor (Tyre) and surrounding villages, despite the destruction inflicted by the Israeli occupation forces on thir homes, November 27, 2024
After nearly two months of displacement, Lebanese citizens return to their homes in Soor (Tyre) and surrounding villages, despite the destruction inflicted by the Israeli occupation forces on thir homes, November 27, 2024.	Lebanese residents of Ayta Al-Sha'b in South Lebanon celebrate return to their home town, marking scenes of joy and solidarity despite the destruction caused by Israeli occupation forces, November 27, 2024.

***

بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمَـٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ

"مِنْ أَجْلِ ذَٰلِكَ كَتَبْنَا عَلَىٰ بَنِي إِسْرَائِيلَ أَنَّهُ مَنْ قَتَلَ نَفْسًا بِغَيْرِ نَفْسٍ أَوْ فَسَادٍ فِي الْأَرْضِ فَكَأَنَّمَا قَتَلَ النَّاسَ جَمِيعًا"  (الْمَائِدَةُ ، 5: 32).

"وَمَنْ يَقْتُلْ مُؤْمِنًا مُّتَعَمِّدًا فَجَزَاؤُهُ جَهَنَّمُ خَالِدًا فِيهَا وَغَضِبَ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَلَعَنَهُ وَأَعَدَّ لَهُ عَذَابًا عَظِيمًا" (النِّسَاءُ ، 4: 93).

"إِنْ أَحْسَنتُمْ أَحْسَنتُمْ لِأَنفُسِكُمْ ۖ وَإِنْ أَسَأْتُمْ فَلَهَا ۚ فَإِذَا جَاءَ وَعْدُ الْآخِرَةِ لِيَسُوءُوا وُجُوهَكُمْ وَلِيَدْخُلُوا الْمَسْجِدَ كَمَا دَخَلُوهُ أَوَّلَ مَرَّةٍ وَلِيُتَبِّرُوا مَا عَلَوْا تَتْبِيرًا" ‎(الإسْرَاءُ ، 17: 7).  

In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"Because of that, We decreed upon the Children of Israel that whoever kills a soul, unless for a soul, or for corruption in the land, it is as if he had killed humankind entirely" (The Holy Quran, Al-Ma-ida, 5: 32).

"And whoever kills a believer intentionally, his recompense is Hell, wherein he will abide eternally, and Allah has become angry with him, and has cursed him, and has prepared for him a great torment" (Al-Nisa, 4: 93).

"If you do good, you do good for yourselves; and if you do evil, (you do it) to yourselves. Then, when the latter promise (of punishment) comes, (our worshippers) will sadden your faces, and will enter the Masjid, as they entered it the first time, and will destroy what they will take over, with (total) destruction" (Al-Isra, 17: 7). 

*** 

While brutal force has been used to create Zionist Israel and sustain it thus far, Zionist claims to Palestine are false. Actually, from the five thousand years of known written human history, there has been a continuous Palestinian-Canaanite presence in the Holy Land. Despite the Zionist false claims, the ancient Israelites ruled part of the land for only 85 years (during the reign of Prophets David and Solomon , peace be upon them, and Solomon's son).

 After that, the Egyptians conquered Palestine-Canaan in 925 BC, followed by Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans, before the Arab Muslim rule, starting from 636 AD.

By the Time Jesus, peace be upon him, started his mission, the three population groups of Canaanites, Palestinians, and Israelites were melted together in religion and language. Most of them became Christians when Constantine converted in 313 AD. Then, most of them became Muslims in the 7th and 8th centuries AD.

So, Palestinian Muslims, Christians, and Jews are the ones who have the right to claim descent from ancient Israelites, Palestinians, and Canaanites, not Zionists from other continents.

No matter what the Zionists and their supporters do, they cannot change the will of God, Who promised the Holy Land to Abraham and his descendants, basically the Palestinian Muslims and Christians.

No matter how much persecution and aggression the Zionists and their supporters inflict upon the Palestinian people, they will never be able to force them out of the Holy Land, which Allah, praise to Him, promised for them, and kept His promise ever since.

This is a necessary brief background to understand the US-Backed Zionist Israeli continuous wars against the Arab nation generally, and the Palestinian people in particular, which included the wars of 1948, 1956, 1967, 1978, 1982, the brutal crushing of the two Uprisings (1987-1993 and 2000-2004), 2009, 2012, 2014, 2021, and the current genocidal war on Gaza (Since October 7, 2023), which has culminated a blockade of Gaza since 2007. In addition, the Israeli occupation and apartheid regime launched so many covert operations, raids, and air strikes on many Arab states since 1948.

*** 

Al-Mayadeen documents war's impact on resilient towns in South Lebanon

By Al-Mayadeen English

November 27, 2024

After the ceasefire took effect, Al Mayadeen headed to the frontline villages of South Lebanon, documenting the impact of months of fierce confrontations.

A woman waves a Hezbollah flag as she celebrates the ceasefire, which began early morning in Tyre, south Lebanon, on November 27, 2024. (AP)

Al-Mayadeen documented the situation in the frontline border villages in South Lebanon, the withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces beyond the Lebanese-Palestinian border, and the return of citizens and families to their villages and homes following months of displacement. 

Al Mayadeen's correspondent reported that in Southern Lebanon, the Lebanese army set up checkpoints at the entrances of several villages, from al-Khiam to Kfar Kila, Deir Mimas, Markaba, Odaisseh, to protect civilians and prevent any confrontations with Israeli occupation forces.

While there is no Israeli ground presence in these locations, the Lebanese army has closed off roads to protect civilians from potential targeting.

In al-Khiam, a town that the Israeli forces failed to control, our correspondent described significant destruction on the western outskirts. Despite ongoing threats, residents have begun returning to the town. Additionally, an Israeli Merkava tank has been observed stationed at the town’s western edges.

Some Israeli tanks have withdrawn to areas shielded from view within occupied territories.

Meanwhile, fear grips Israeli soldiers along border towns as displaced citizens return to their lands and homes, regardless of the closure of town entrances. 

Additionally, the ceasefire has exposed discrepancies in the Israeli military's claims regarding the locations of its forces. Our correspondent pointed out that the positions currently held by Israeli troops are the same ones they had reached in the past two months, contrary to previous assertions made by the Israeli army about their troop deployments.

Al Mayadeen's correspondent further reported that civil defense teams are actively working to clear the rubble and open the road at the entrance to al-Khiam.

As clearning efforts continue, bodies of Hezbollah and Amal Movement martyrs have been recovered from the Jalahiya area, a significant location in ground battles during the final days of the war. Despite the recovery efforts, the region still sees the presence of an Israeli Merkava tank and a group of Israeli soldiers, who continue to fire at approaching civilians. 

These activities highlight the ongoing tension in the area, as both recovery and military operations persist amid the complex and volatile situation along Lebanon's southern border.

Our correspondent in the South reported that the Resistance fighters remained in al-Khiam until the last moments of the aggression and the beginning of the ceasefire. 

The camera also captured the situation on the outskirts of the border town of al-Taybeh and the Rab al-Thalathin-Odaisseh triangle, areas that witnessed fierce battles between the resistance fighters and the Israeli occupation forces. 

Al Mayadeen's camera also documented scenes from Bint Jbeil in southern Lebanon, showing the ongoing return of displaced residents and the gradual restoration of near-normal activity in the area, highlighting the community's resilience and efforts to recover despite recent challenges.

The Mayor of Bint Jbeil, Afif Bazzi, told Al Mayadeen that the return of displaced residents would not have been possible without the sacrifices of the resistance fighters. He also noted that reconstruction efforts have begun to facilitate the safe and sustained return of those who were displaced. These efforts aim to restore normalcy and support the community's resilience in rebuilding their lives. 

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Defying IOFs warnings, Lebanese continue heading home, arrive at towns

By Al-Mayadeen English

November 27, 2024

The scenes of Lebanese people returning to their homes depict a powerful image of resilience and victory.

Al-Mayadeen’s cameras documented the historic return of forcibly displaced residents from South Lebanon, the Biqaa' Valley, and the Southern Suburb of Beirut, as they made their way back to their homes and villages. This significant movement began Wednesday morning, following the implementation of the ceasefire.

The scenes depicted a powerful image of resilience and recovery, as families returned to areas that had long been under Israeli aggression.

The footage highlighted both the emotional and symbolic significance of the return, as Lebanese people hailed the Resistance and celebrated victory, while also mourning their martyred leader, Al-Sayyid Hasan Nasrullah.

In interviews for Al Mayadeen's correspondents, returning Lebanese citizens expressed pride in their resilience, declaring, "We triumphed through our determination, steadfastness, and Resistance."

They highlighted that while settlers have not returned to the northern settlements, the people of the South, Bekaa, and Southern Suburb are now making their way back. "The enemy bet on schism and civil war, but it has failed," they added, referring to the unity exhibited by most of the Lebanese people from all sects and factions by embracing the displaced.

Lebanese citizens vow to pass victory on to future generations

In interviews for Al Mayadeen, Lebanese citizens expressed unwavering resolve and pride in their nation’s resilience. One group stated, "We will continue on this path, and victory is inevitable," underscoring their confidence in the future. Others paid tribute to the martyred Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, acknowledging that "were it not for you, we wouldn’t have achieved victory," recognizing his leadership as central to their success.

Many also vowed to ensure that the legacy of their struggle endures, declaring, "We will pass this victory on to our grandchildren," highlighting their commitment to preserving the triumph for future generations.

Lebanese citizens told Al Mayadeen, "Today, we are celebrating a national triumph," as they expressed pride in the collective achievement. They emphasized that the victory was made possible "thanks to the brave men of the Resistance," acknowledging the crucial role played by the Resistance fighters in securing their victory.

In Ghazieh, southern Lebanon, scenes of displaced families returning to their homes were captured.

Al Mayadeen also documented the return of residents as they passed through the city of Sayda in southern Lebanon.

In Tyre, Al Mayadeen captured the poignant return of residents as they made their way back to their hometowns, marking a moment of relief and hope after a prolonged period of forcible displacement.

Meanwhile, celebratory processions were held in the Southern Suburb of Beirut, where communities gathered to honor the resilience of the Lebanese people, reflecting both their pride in the victory and their enduring spirit in the face of adversity.

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Lebanese in Syria return home despite Israeli bombardment of crossings

Al-Mayadeen, November 27, 2024

Following the ceasefire agreement, over 150,000 Lebanese citizens began returning from Syria to their homes in southern Lebanon, the Beqaa Valley, and the Southern Suburb of Beirut.

Displaced residents returning from Syria sit in traffic amid roadworks to reopen the al-Masnaa border crossing, in eastern Lebanon, following the ceasefire in Lebanon and 'Israel', on Nov. 27, 2024. (AP)

Parallel to the return of Lebanese citizens to southern Lebanon, the Beqaa Valley, and the Southern Suburb of Beirut after the ceasefire with "Israel" took effect, those who had fled to Syria began heading toward the border crossings to return to their villages and towns.

Since the announcement of the ceasefire, the movement of Lebanese citizens returning to their homes has intensified. The Syrian cities where they had been residing saw heavy and rapid movement, with the number of returnees exceeding 150,000, according to Al Mayadeen's correspondent.

Lebanese citizens returned through the Jdeidet Yabous border crossing, which began rehabilitation efforts hours after the cessation of hostilities. Additionally, the al-Jousiya crossing, located in the al-Qusayr region of southwestern Homs, was reopened on an emergency basis to facilitate the return of displaced Lebanese.

From the al-Masnaa point on the Lebanon-Syria border, Al Mayadeen's correspondent confirmed heavy traffic and large numbers of Lebanese returning from Syria. People had started gathering before the Lebanese Ministry of Public Works announced the repair of crossing points targeted by Israeli airstrikes.

The ministry instructed its technical teams to fill the craters caused by the Israeli aggression along the al-Masnaa road, and the crossing was reopened after it had been hit by more than four Israeli airstrikes.

Additionally, footage showed significant damage at the al-Dabousiya border crossing on the Syrian side due to the Israeli aggression.

Berri to the displaced: 'Return to your lands; the legacy of martyrs'

Earlier on Wednesday, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri paid tribute to the martyr of the nation, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, who entrusted him with "the responsibility of political Resistance," in a speech delivered after the announcement of the ceasefire in Lebanon. 

Berri commended the resilience of the Lebanese people in overcoming the aftermath of the Israeli aggression, which has now ceased, ushering in a new phase for the country.

He emphasized the importance of unity, calling this period one of the most dangerous challenges Lebanon has faced, threatening its very foundations and demanding a unified response to preserve the nation.

Addressing the displaced citizens, Berri urged them to return to their lands, calling these areas "the legacy of the martyrs," cultivated by their sacrifices and crowned with victory.

"Even if you must live on the rubble, return to your lands that the Resistance has turned into embers that cannot be stepped on," he declared.

Finally, Berri appealed to all political forces to embrace unity during this critical time, asserting that "this is not a moment to dance over the bloodshed but to safeguard Lebanon as one nation." He called on all stakeholders to recognize the gravity of this historical moment and work collectively to ensure Lebanon's stability and future.

*** 

Ceasefire in Lebanon receives widespread support, many hail Resistance

By Al Mayadeen English

November 27, 2024

The moment the ceasefire took effect, the Lebanese people headed home, even without knowing if their homes were still standing.

People sit in traffic as they return to their villages after a ceasefire between the Israeli occupation and Hezbollah went into effect, in Ghazieh, Lebanon, on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. (AP)

Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmail Baghaei announced Wednesday that the Islamic Republic of Iran welcomed the cessation of Israeli aggression against Lebanon, reiterating its steadfast support for the Lebanese government, people, and Resistance.

Baghaei emphasized Iran's commitment to peace in the region and highlighted its ongoing diplomatic efforts to halt hostilities in Gaza and Lebanon over the past 14 months, which have killed tens of thousands and caused widespread destruction of vital infrastructure.

"The result of the warmongering and crimes committed by the Zionist regime, fully supported by the United States and certain European governments, is the martyrdom of 60,000 innocent people, the wounding of 120,000 individuals, and the displacement of over 3.5 million oppressed people in Palestine and Lebanon," Baghaei said. 

Baghaei called attention to international legal actions, including temporary orders by the International Court of Justice to prevent genocide and an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court for war crimes and crimes against humanity. He underscored the global demand for justice, stating, "Public opinion worldwide has been calling for an end to war and genocide for the past 14 months. Today, they await the trial and punishment of the perpetrators from the occupying regime."

The Iranian official urged the international community to fulfill its responsibility in maintaining peace and stability in West Asia and to exert effective pressure on the Israeli occupation to cease its military actions in Gaza.

China

China also welcomed the ceasefire, stressing that similar steps are needed for a truce in the Palestinian-besieged enclave of Gaza, amid an ongoing genocide for more than a year, state media reported.

Beijing “supports all efforts conducive to easing tensions and achieving peace, and welcomes the relevant parties reaching an agreement on a cease-fire,” Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters in the Chinese capital.

“The Chinese side believes the failure to reach a cease-fire in Gaza is the root cause of the current turmoil in the Middle East," she asserted, urging all parties to “work together to achieve a comprehensive and lasting cease-fire in Gaza at an earlier date.”

Ansar Allah hails victory over 'Israel'

The head of the Yemeni negotiating delegation and Ansar Allah's spokesperson, Mohammad Abdul Salam, praised the steadfastness of Hezbollah and the Lebanese people in their resistance against Israeli aggression, describing it as a significant victory.

"We salute the great resilience of Hezbollah and the dear Lebanese people in facing the brutal Israeli aggression. Through this resilience and the unity of the people, army, and Resistance, Lebanon has achieved a new victory by repelling the aggression and thwarting its malicious plots," Abdul Salam said.

He emphasized that the Islamic Resistance in Lebanon has only grown stronger and more deeply rooted despite its significant sacrifices. “With its great sacrifices, the Resistance has only increased in strength and firmness,” he added.

Abdul Salam also expressed confidence in Hezbollah’s leadership, commending its ability to regain the initiative swiftly, even in the face of tremendous challenges. He highlighted the assassination of "the martyr of Islam and Muslims," Hezbollah Secretary-General Al-Sayyid 'Hasan Nasrullah, praising the leadership for maintaining steadfastness despite the loss.

“The Israeli enemy would not have conceded to a ceasefire had it not encountered an unbroken and solid resistance,” he said, adding that the Resistance had "risen even more ferociously, capable of engaging in a long-term war of attrition." Abdul Salam asserted that the Israeli occupation, with its fragile and weak nature, "is weaker than a spider’s web, as described by the martyr leader Al-Sayyid Nasrullah."

Ceasefire not to weaken Axis: Iraq

Iraqi Resistance group Kataib Hezbollah welcomed the ceasefire agreement, as well, praising it as a testament to the steadfastness of Hezbollah fighters in Lebanon.

Just hours after the ceasefire officially came into effect, Kataib Hezbollah declared the ceasefire "a purely Lebanese decision" and acknowledged the pivotal role of the Lebanese Resistance movement in bringing about the agreement.

The group stressed that a temporary pause in the activities of any Resistance faction would not weaken the unity of the broader Axis of Resistance. “On the contrary, new parties will join, strengthening the resistance front to confront the enemies of Allah, His Messenger, and the believers,” the statement said.

Kataib Hezbollah also accused the United States of being complicit in the Israeli occupation's actions during the war, labeling it "a partner of the Zionist entity in all its treacherous crimes of murder, destruction, and displacement." The group warned that the US would be held accountable for its malicious role, stating, "It must pay the price for these crimes sooner or later."

Reiterating its unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, Kataib Hezbollah affirmed its solidarity with the people of Gaza, emphasizing that no sacrifice would deter its commitment. “We remain undeterred by the threats, treachery, or criminal methods of the enemy. And it is incumbent upon us to aid the believers," the statement concluded.

Egypt

On its part, the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on Wednesday that Egypt welcomes the announcement of the ceasefire coming into effect in Lebanon, confirming that this step will contribute to the beginning of a de-escalation phase in the region.

Qatar

Qatar welcomed on Wednesday the ceasefire, saying it hoped the deal would lead to a truce in Gaza, where it has been a key mediator.

"The State of Qatar welcomes the ceasefire agreement in the Lebanese Republic and expresses its hope that it will lead to a similar agreement to halt the ongoing war on the Gaza Strip and the Israeli assaults on the occupied West Bank," Qatar's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Turkiye

President Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday that Turkiye was ready to help in any way possible to establish a lasting ceasefire in Gaza and expressed satisfaction with the ceasefire agreement that has come into effect in Lebanon.

"We are stating that, as Turkiye, we are ready to provide any contribution for the massacre in Gaza to end and for a lasting ceasefire to be achieved," Erdogan told members of his ruling AK Party in parliament.

Likewise, the Turkish Foreign Ministry welcomed the "positive outcome of the negotiations on the ceasefire in Lebanon," expressing hope it will become permanent.

It also urged the international community to pressure "Israel" to ensure its explicit commitment to the ceasefire and that it compensates for the damage it has caused to Lebanon.

"It is imperative for the international community to exert pressure on Israel to fully comply with the ceasefire and to provide reparations for the damages it has caused in Lebanon," the ministry said in a statement, adding that Turkiye was ready to support peace efforts in Lebanon.    It said a ceasefire must also be declared in Gaza as soon as possible for lasting regional peace and stability.

Australia

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong welcomed the ceasefire between Lebanon and "Israel", expressing hope that it will turn into a "catalyst for a broader ceasefire in the region. And we look forward to the day when there is a ceasefire too, in Gaza."

"We want to see diplomatic efforts to ensure that the relevant UN Security Council resolutions are complied with," she said.

Cyprus

The president of Cyprus, Nikos ChristodoulidesI, also welcomed the announcement of the ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and "Israel", stressing his country's continued support for "Lebanon in fostering its state institutions, including the Lebanese Armed Forces."

I wholeheartedly welcome the announcement of the ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel. The mediating role of the US and FR to this end has been invaluable. Cyprus will continue to support Lebanon in fostering its state institutions, including the Lebanese Armed Forces.

Ceasefire goes into effect

The Israeli ceasefire with Lebanon officially took effect on Wednesday at 4:00 am (local time).

On Tuesday, US President Joe Biden announced that the governments of "Israel" and Lebanon have accepted a proposal to end the war, describing the development as "good news".

He said that he spoke with the prime ministers of "Israel" and Lebanon and was "pleased to announce that their governments have accepted the United States' proposal to end the devasting conflict between Israel and Hezbollah." 

Biden confirmed that as soon as the ceasefire takes effect, it will permanently end hostilities, thanking French President Emmanuel Macron for his "partnership in reaching this moment." 

He added that the Lebanese Army would regain control over its territory following the implementation of the ceasefire agreement. 

***

The world welcomes the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire, but worries remain

November 27, 2024

By Scott Neuman 

TEL AVIV, Israel, and BEIRUT —

Celebratory gunfire rang out in the Lebanese capital Beirut overnight Tuesday to mark the start of a ceasefire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in Lebanon to end almost 14 months of fighting.

The truce, brokered by the United States and France, went into effect at 4 a.m. local time on Wednesday. Fighting, however, continued up to the zero hour, with Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon far into the night.

Underlining the potential fragility of the truce, the Israeli military says it fired toward suspects in a prohibited zone just hours into the ceasefire, and the suspects left. Israel's defense minister, Israel Katz, said they were Hezbollah operatives in a border village.

In a joint statement, President Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron said the deal "will cease the fighting in Lebanon, and secure Israel from the threat of Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations operating from Lebanon." They said it "will create the conditions to restore lasting calm and allow residents in both countries to return safely to their homes" along the border.

Hezbollah started firing rockets into northern Israel in support of Hamas after the Palestinian militant group led an attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. Israel and Hezbollah have exchanged fire since then. The fighting — which intensified eight weeks ago, when Israel initiated a ground invasion of southern Lebanon aimed at eliminating Hezbollah fighters and weapons capabilities from the border region — has killed more than 3,700 people in Lebanon, according to Lebanese health officials, and around 80 people in northern Israel, according to Israeli officials.

The conflict has driven more than 1.2 million Lebanese — about a fifth of the population — from their homes, according to the United Nations. Israel estimates about 60,000 people evacuated northern communities to flee Hezbollah's rockets.

Israel also stepped up airstrikes across Lebanon in recent months, which damaged homes and infrastructure, and killed top Hezbollah officials — including longtime chief Hassan Nasrallah, its senior commander in the south, Mohammed Nasser, and rocket and missile commander Ibrahim Qubaisi.

Israel has fulfilled its military objectives, primarily eliminating Hezbollah infrastructure, says Randa Slim, director of the Conflict Resolution and Track II Dialogues Program at the Middle East Institute. "On the border, it's pretty much destroyed," Slim says. "But on top of that, they have wiped out their military command council, as well as their political leadership, top senior political leadership. So these are severe blows to Hezbollah, which is going to take a long, long time to recover from."

Many Lebanese already began trying to return to their southern villages, despite Israeli military warnings not to do so yet, while Israeli troops are still deployed.

In southern Lebanon, Patricia Taleb, 24, was driving Wednesday to reach the home she was forced to abandon earlier. "We know that this is the end days of the war. We know that ultimately it's going to be OK," she told NPR.

For now, Israel is discouraging its residents from returning to their abandoned homes in the border area. Education Minister Yoav Kisch said on Israel Army Radio there will be a 30- to 60-day period of renovating buildings and institutions damaged by Hezbollah fire before Israel initiates a return of Israeli residents.

Orna Peretz, an Israeli displaced from Kiryat Shmona, a town less than a mile from the Israel-Lebanon border, told NPR he thinks Hezbollah — founded during Lebanon's 1975-1990 civil war — has been taught a lesson "it never endured in its entire lifetime."

"There is a good deal here that had to come because of the international pressure. And we have somewhere to return to," he said. Alluding to the devastation that Israel has inflicted on southern Lebanon, he added: "The Lebanese have nowhere to return to."

The terms of the ceasefire

The ceasefire agreement calls for a 60-day timeframe for Hezbollah fighters to withdraw from an area south of the Litani River — effectively creating a buffer between the militants and northern Israel. Israeli forces are expected to similarly withdraw to the Israeli side of the border.

A portrait of Hassan Nasrallah, Hezbollah's former leader who was killed earlier this year, hangs on the wall at the site of an Israeli strike in Basta, central Beirut, Nov. 23.

Nael Chahine/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images

To ensure security in the area, the deal calls for thousands of Lebanese government soldiers to deploy to the south, along with U.N. peacekeeping forces known as UNIFIL, according to a copy of the deal seen by NPR. A U.S.-led international panel will monitor for violations of the terms of the agreement.

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In addition, the agreement calls for Lebanese government authorities to prevent Hezbollah or any other armed group from carrying out attacks on Israel. It further requires Lebanon's military and security forces be the only armed group allowed to operate in southern Lebanon, and that Lebanese authorities prevent the reestablishment and rearming of any non-state armed group in the country.

Israel has pledged to aggressively respond to any breach of the terms. "Any violation of the ceasefire will be met with fire," Israeli military spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari told reporters. He said Israeli "soldiers are still positioned in southern Lebanon, in villages and areas from which the forces will gradually withdraw in accordance with the agreement."

"This is all going to be about the enforcement," says Shalom Lipner, a Jerusalem-based Middle East expert at the Atlantic Council. "They're telegraphing that there will not be any exceptions [as] in the past."

"The stated intent is that at the smallest infraction, they will go through the motions of reporting this to the [U.S.-led international] supervisory committee and [if] Israel doesn't get satisfaction, they will take action on their own," he says.

Iran and Israel's Arab neighbors have welcomed the ceasefire

After the U.S.- and-France brokered deal was announced in Paris, Iran — which has long been the primary backer of both Hezbollah and Hamas militants in Gaza — said it welcomed the news to end "aggression against Lebanon." Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei emphasized Tehran's "firm support for the Lebanese government, nation and resistance."

In separate statements, Jordan and Egypt each said Israel's "aggression in Gaza" should be stopped. Jordan called the Lebanon ceasefire "an important step."

Egypt's Foreign Ministry said in a statement that Cairo hopes the ceasefire "will contribute to the beginning of the de-escalation phase in the region." It called for Israel to allow "full access to humanitarian aid without obstacles in light of the catastrophic humanitarian conditions in the [Gaza] Strip, in addition to stopping the unjustified violations in the West Bank."

Saudi Arabia said it hoped the ceasefire "will lead to the implementation of [U.N.] Security Council Resolution 1701," referring to a previous agreement renewing UNIFIL's mandate at the end of a 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah. Saudi Arabia called for "the preservation of Lebanon's sovereignty, security and stability and the return of the displaced to their homes in safety and security."

Palestinians in Gaza and some Israelis have misgivings

Still, some Israelis remain skeptical. "This deal, we still know nothing about it," Avraham Moreno, displaced from Shlomi, a village on the border with Lebanon, tells NPR. "We have very, very mixed feelings, even though we really want to return home."

And in Gaza, there are worries as well. Wala Hanuna, 34, a Palestinian displaced by Israel's nearly 14-month military offensive there, worried that the Israeli military would now be free to wreak more destruction on the territory. "We read the news that the Israeli army fighting in Lebanon will go now to Gaza," she said. "Maybe the war here will last another year, with no one thinking how we will get out of this."

Hamas, the militant group that Israel has been fighting in Gaza, thanked Hezbollah for its "pivotal role … in support of the Gaza Strip and the Palestinian resistance, and the great sacrifices," including the death of Nasrallah.

On the Lebanese side of the border, "many of the country's displaced may not be able to return home for months, as Israel has razed entire villages near the 'Blue Line' border," according to David Wood, a senior analyst on Lebanon at Crisis Group. The Blue Line is the demarcation in southern Lebanon from where Israel withdrew in 2000.

Humanitarian aid agencies see challenges ahead

The United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, says the fighting has limited access to southern Lebanon, where more than 188,000 people live in more than 1,000 government-assigned collective shelters, many of which have reached maximum capacity. "The heavy bombardments have also had a devastating impact on public services and infrastructure," the agency said.

Men ride past destroyed buildings in the southern Lebanese town of Qana as people make their way back to their homes after a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect, Wednesday.

In a statement on the ceasefire, UNICEF said it hopes the agreement "will bring an end to the war which has killed more than 240 children, injured around 1,400, and upended the lives of countless others."

"Urgent work must now begin to ensure this peace is sustained. Children and families must be able to return to their communities safely, especially those displaced in shelters and host communities," the agency said.

Scott Neuman reported from Tel Aviv, Israel. Lauren Frayer contributed reporting from Beirut; Kat Lonsdorf and Daniel Estrin contributed from Tel Aviv.

World welcomes Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire to stop Lebanon war : NPR

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Editorial Notes about terms & names of people and places:

1. Names of people and places have been standardized to match standard Arabic grammatical rules.

2. Underlined letters and letters preceded by an apostrophe are references to Arabic letter sounds, which does not exist in the English alphabet.

3. The English letter i is equivalent to the Arabic short vowel known as kasra, as in Ibraheem and Qasim as well as in the English words sit and bit. So, it is incorrect to use it as a long vowel for such Arabic names as Jameel and Jibreel.

4. The English letter e is equivalent to the Arabi short vowel known as fat'ha, as in A'hmed and Mu'hammed.

5. It is more accurate to refer to the land-grabbing Israelis, who establish illegal settlements in the Palestinian territory of the West Bank, as illegal Israeli settlers, than referring to them as colonists.

The term colony is a reference to a large entity or a country, such as American states before independence. It was also a reference to Egypt, and India, when they were British colonies.

In addition, the term "colony" represents a positive nostalgic theme, in the minds of native speakers of English, particularly in America and Britain.

6. It is more accurate to use the verbs "abduct" and "kidnap" than the verbs "detain" and "arrest," in reference to taking Palestinian citizens by force to prisons and interrogation centers, by Israeli occupation regime soldiers. This is because the presence of the Israeli occupation regime forces is illegal in the Palestinian territories, and they have no jurisdiction over the Palestinian people.

Click here for more about using the apostrophe and the underlining of letters in the transliteration of Arabic names. 

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Names of some of the Palestinian cities, as pronounced in standard Arabic, and their foreign names in parentheses: 

Al-Khaleel (Hebron)

Al-Nusayrat

Al-Quds (occupied Jerusalem)

Aree'ha (Jericho)

Al-Zaytoun (al-Zeitoun)

Bait (Beit)

Bait La'hm (Bethlehem)

Dair El-Bala'h

Jineen (Jenin)

Khan Younus (Khan Younis)

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Person's names as pronounced in standard Arabic:

A'hmed, 'Hasan, Mu'hammed, Younus, Yousuf,  

'Hasan Mulai'hat,

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Conflict terminology

The Israeli occupation apartheid regime (the Israeli government)

Illegal Israeli settlers (instead of settlers, colonists)

A group of the illegal Israeli settlers

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