Lebanon Enters New Phase After Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced on 17 April 2026 that Lebanon is entering a new phase of permanent agreements following a 10-day ceasefire in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict.
The ceasefire, which came into effect after intense fighting since 2 March, marks a shift from active hostilities to negotiations aimed at preserving Lebanon's sovereignty and unity.
President Aoun stated that Lebanon is no longer "an arena for anyone's wars" and emphasized that the government has reclaimed decision-making power for the first time in nearly 50 years.
He highlighted that Lebanon will now negotiate for itself and will not be a pawn in external conflicts.
The recent conflict began when Hezbollah, backed by Iran, launched attacks on Israel to avenge the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Israel responded with airstrikes and a ground offensive in Lebanon, resulting in nearly 2,300 deaths and displacing over one million people.
Since the ceasefire, the Lebanese government has taken steps to assert control, including plans to disarm Hezbollah, which has maintained its weapons since the civil war ended in 1990.
The government banned Hezbollah's military activities following the outbreak of the latest conflict.
This development is significant as it signals a potential reduction in Hezbollah's military influence and a move towards greater Lebanese sovereignty.
