Lebanese Minister Expresses Cautious Optimism Over New Israel Ceasefire Agreement

Following the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, Lebanon’s Culture Minister Ghassane Salamé told Euronews’ Europe Today that he hopes the current deal proves more “genuine” than previous attempts, describing earlier truces as largely ineffective.

“The agreement is still fresh, so it is probably too early to determine its level of seriousness,” Salamé stated. He noted, however, that the rejection of the deal by several Israeli cabinet ministers was a discouraging sign.

Despite these concerns, Salamé argued that the current agreement is bolstered by the direct involvement of the United States as a negotiator.

“Without American pressure, we did not expect the Israeli government to move forward with such an agreement. It is under sustained American pressure that we can expect real implementation this time,” he explained.

The agreement arrives during a period of escalating tensions between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump, leaving Lebanon positioned between the two leaders’ conflicting dynamics.

Salamé also highlighted the devastating impact of Israel’s recent military incursions, noting the total destruction of 60 villages and damage to significant cultural heritage sites, including the historic Chateau de Beaufort.

The stability of the ceasefire relies on the Iran-backed Hezbollah group ceasing military attacks and withdrawing its fighters from the region south of the Litani River.

Despite the official commitment to the truce, reports indicate that Israel conducted multiple drone strikes in the Nabatieh area of southern Lebanon on Thursday morning.

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