Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire Takes Effect as Gunfire Rings Out in Beirut

Mintesinot Nigussie

The 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect early Friday, with Lebanon’s military alleging that Israel carried out intermittent shelling in southern villages shortly after the agreement came into force. United States President Donald Trump announced the ceasefire on Thursday, saying Iran-backed Hezbollah was included in the agreement to halt hostilities.

The truce began just after midnight local time, prompting mixed reactions across Lebanon. In Beirut, celebratory gunfire echoed through the night as the ceasefire took hold, with residents firing into the air in scenes of relief and tension. Similar reactions were reported in other parts of the country.

Displaced families began moving towards southern Lebanon and Beirut’s southern suburbs despite official warnings not to return until it became clearer whether the ceasefire would hold. The Lebanese army said Israel had committed violations after the truce took effect, citing shelling in several southern villages.

Hezbollah issued a statement detailing its military operations against Israel on Thursday, saying its final attack occurred at 11:50pm local time, 10 minutes before the ceasefire began. President Trump later called on Hezbollah to observe the agreement in a post on Truth Social.

Businesses in energy, shipping and finance sectors are closely monitoring the situation, as any successful ceasefire could ease pressure on global oil prices and trade routes through the region.

Overall, the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire taking effect has brought a temporary halt to hostilities, though reports of violations and celebratory gunfire highlight the fragile nature of the agreement.