Photo: JALAA MAREY / AFP / Getty Images
The Israeli security cabinet has approved a ceasefire deal with the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah, according to CNN. The U.S.-proposed agreement aims to end the ongoing hostilities between the two parties.
The ceasefire, set to begin on Wednesday (November 27), will last for 60 days. The decision comes after a series of discussions and negotiations facilitated by the United States. The ceasefire is seen as a significant step towards restoring peace in the region, which has been marred by conflict.
"The ceasefire allows us to focus on the Iranian threat," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said. "We will complete the elimination of Hamas, the return of all the hostages, and the return of the residents of the north."
Netanyahu did not rule out the possibility of future attacks and warned that Israel was prepared to strike Hezbollah if they violated the terms of the cease-fire deal.
"With full understanding with the United States, we maintain complete military freedom of action," Netanyahu added. "If Hezbollah violates the agreement and tries to arm itself -- we will attack. If it tries to renew terrorist infrastructure near the border -- we will attack. If it launches a rocket, if it digs a tunnel, if it brings in a truck with missiles -- we will attack."
Further details about the agreement have not been disclosed. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, hoping that the ceasefire will hold and lead to a more permanent resolution.