US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has expressed optimism on Wednesday for a “lasting peace” as Israeli troops begin withdrawing from southern Lebanon.
Speaking at a news conference in Paris, Blinken confirmed that the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, in place for nearly a month, continues to hold.
“The ceasefire is holding,” Blinken stated, highlighting the withdrawal of over a third of Israeli forces from Lebanon as of yesterday. “I think the ceasefire can be a bridge to a durable peace.”
A five-member committee, including representatives from the United States, France, Lebanon, Israel, and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), is overseeing the ceasefire’s implementation and addressing any violations.
Blinken emphasized the significance of international cooperation in ensuring the ceasefire's success, calling the current progress a “step in the right direction.”
The US and France have played key roles in facilitating discussions and monitoring the situation on the ground.
With AFP
Comments