A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, brokered by the U.S. and France, has taken effect. It mandates a 60-day phased Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon and the deployment of Lebanese security forces to prevent a power vacuum. The deal aims to dismantle Hezbollah's infrastructure near the Israeli border and is seen as a potential precursor to easing tensions in Gaza. The agreement also strengthens international oversight and support for Lebanonβs sovereignty.