Lebanon woke up to a moment of respite as a U.S.-brokered ceasefire ended the war between Israel and Hezbollah. Celebratory gunfire replaced the sound of airstrikes, allowing thousands of displaced people to return to their towns and villages in southern and eastern Lebanon. However, the aftermath of the war presents daunting challenges.
Town after town in the south and east, along with parts of Beirut, lay in ruins. The World Bank estimates losses at $8.5 billion. The ceasefire raises questions about rebuilding costs, the removal of Hezbollah fighters and arsenals from the south, and Israel's acceptance of the ceasefire terms.
Lebanon's political paralysis has worsened during the war, with tensions between groups allied and opposed to Hezbollah. The ceasefire deal's first phase involves Hezbollah and Israeli forces withdrawing from south Lebanon, with the Lebanese military taking over. However, the military faces the delicate task of ensuring Hezbollah dismantles its infrastructure without provoking conflict.
The international community, including the U.S. and France, will monitor the ceasefire's implementation. Critics fear Lebanon is under greater pressure, with Israel retaining the freedom to attack Hezbollah if it violates the terms.
Lebanon, already grappling with a financial crisis, needs support for its military and reconstruction efforts. Despite pledges of $1 billion in aid, funding has yet to materialize. The country's GDP shrunk by $1.15 billion in the last two months of the war, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
Hezbollah's role in Lebanon remains contentious, with allies citing its defense capabilities and critics demanding disarmament. The group's decision to launch rockets into Israel unilaterally sparked internal and external criticism, further complicating Lebanon's political landscape.
As Lebanon navigates post-war challenges, the international community's assistance and political support will be crucial in addressing the country's urgent needs and resolving longstanding issues beyond the ceasefire with Israel.
