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Philippine Police file criminal complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte and security aides

Venus L Peñaflor
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Philippine Police file criminal complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte and security aides

MANILA. Philippine police filed criminal complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte and her security staff on Wednesday, accusing them of assaulting authorities and disobeying orders during a recent altercation in Congress. The complaints, lodged by Quezon City police, come amid rising tensions between Duterte and the Marcos administration.

The criminal charges are separate from other legal actions related to Duterte’s controversial public statements. The vice president recently threatened to have President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his wife Liza, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez assassinated if she were killed in an alleged plot. Duterte has not provided details about the purported plot, but her remarks have sparked significant public attention.

In a related move, presidential adviser Larry Gadon filed a petition with the Supreme Court, seeking to disbar Duterte as a lawyer due to her assassination threats, which he described as “illegal, immoral, and condemnable.”

The criminal complaints filed against Duterte and her aides stem from a chaotic incident in the House of Representatives over the weekend. The altercation involved Zuleika Lopez, Duterte’s chief of staff, who was temporarily detained after being accused of obstructing a congressional inquiry into alleged misuse of confidential and intelligence funds by Duterte’s office. Lopez was being transferred to a women’s prison when tensions escalated, prompting Duterte and her staff to intervene. Lopez was later moved to a government hospital, where she remains confined.

National police chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil emphasized the importance of the rule of law, stating, “No one, regardless of their position, should be above accountability.” He stressed that the police are committed to enforcing lawful orders and maintaining public order. “Resistance and disobedience to a person in authority not only violates the law but also undermines public trust,” Marbil added.

In a separate development, the Department of Justice is investigating potentially seditious remarks made by former President Rodrigo Duterte, Sara Duterte’s father. In a recent press conference, he suggested that the civilian government would only listen to the military on corruption and irregularities, citing a fractured governance. While he denied urging the military to rise against President Marcos, justice officials have confirmed they will proceed with an investigation.

In response to the criminal complaints, Vice President Sara Duterte broadly denied the allegations, claiming that the government’s actions were part of a broader effort to remove her from office, freeze her assets, and prevent her from traveling abroad. Speaking to reporters, Duterte dismissed the accusations, calling them “oppression and harassment” based on remarks “taken out of logical context.”

Duterte also addressed the rift with President Marcos, stating that she no longer believed reconciliation was possible. “I really believe that we have reached a point of no return,” she said.

The situation has further strained the relationship between Duterte and Marcos, who were once political allies during the 2022 elections. Their falling out, which includes disagreements over policies related to China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea and the controversial anti-drug crackdown led by former President Duterte, has deepened since Sara Duterte resigned from the Marcos Cabinet in June.

In the meantime, the vice president’s office received a subpoena on Tuesday, inviting her to respond to investigators about the assassination threats she made. Duterte maintains that the threats were not intended as direct calls to action but as expressions of concern for her safety.

As the legal and political drama unfolds, President Marcos has vowed to uphold the rule of law, describing Duterte’s threats as part of a criminal plot. The ongoing tension between the two leaders highlights the deep political divisions within the Philippines.

Tatlo patay sa karumaldumal na krimen dahil sa selos sa Calamba City

Arman B. Cambe
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Tatlo patay sa karumaldumal na krimen dahil sa selos sa Calamba City

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna. Tatlo ang nasawi, kabilang ang isang senior citizen at ang kanyang kinakasama, sa isang insidente ng karahasan noong Nobyembre 25 sa Barangay Mayapa, Calamba City.

Kinilala ng pulisya ang mga biktimang sina Felix Anay Busion, 64-anyos, residente ng Barangay Mayapa, Vivian, ang kinakasama ni Busion at Dante Cereno Lozano, 51-anyos, caretaker mula sa Camarines Sur.

Ayon sa ulat, natagpuang walang buhay ang tatlo sa magkakaibang bahagi ng isang kubo, may mga sugat sa ulo mula sa matitinding hampas ng isang GI pipe.

Naaresto ang suspek na si Anthony America Bustonera, 41-anyos, construction worker, matapos ang mabilis na operasyon ng pulisya. Narekober din ang improvised GI pipe na pinaniniwalaang ginamit sa insidente.

Si Sheryl Ann Panes Olaez, live-in partner ng suspek, ay naging pangunahing testigo sa krimen. Ayon sa kanya, nagkaroon ng inuman ang grupo noong gabi ng Nobyembre 24. Bandang ala-1:30 ng madaling araw ng Nobyembre 25, nagising siya at nakita ang suspek na may hawak na GI pipe.

Batay sa imbestigasyon, pinaniniwalaang selos ang nagtulak sa suspek na gawin ang krimen. May mga ulat na kinompronta ng suspek si Lozano bago ang insidente, dahil sa hinalang may kaugnayan ito sa kanyang live-in partner.

Nahaharap si Bustonera sa kasong three counts ng murder at kasalukuyang nasa kustodiya ng Calamba City Police.

Australia’s House passes bill to ban social media for children under 16

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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Australia’s House passes bill to ban social media for children under 16

MELBOURNE, Australia. Australia’s House of Representatives passed a bill on Wednesday to ban children under 16 years old from accessing social media platforms, setting the stage for the Senate to finalize the world’s first law of its kind.

The legislation, which received strong bipartisan support, holds platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, X, and Instagram accountable with potential fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars (USD 33 million) for failing to enforce the age restriction. The bill passed the lower house by a vote of 102 to 13.

If enacted into law, platforms will have one year to develop systems for implementing the ban before penalties are applied.

Opposition lawmaker Dan Tehan confirmed that amendments would be introduced in the Senate to strengthen privacy protections. These changes would prohibit platforms from requiring users to submit government-issued identity documents, such as passports or driver’s licenses, or digital identification through government systems.

“Will it be perfect? No. But is any law perfect? No, it’s not. But if it helps, even if it helps in just the smallest of ways, it will make a huge difference to people’s lives,” Tehan told Parliament.

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland assured lawmakers that the bill’s broad support in the Senate all but guarantees its passage. However, independent lawmakers voiced concerns during debates, criticizing the bill as rushed and ineffective in addressing the root causes of social media harm.

Independent lawmaker Zoe Daniel argued the bill might have limited impact. “The true object of this legislation is not to make social media safe by design, but to make parents and voters feel like the government is doing something about it,” Daniel told Parliament. She added, “There is a reason why the government parades this legislation as world-leading, that’s because no other country wants to do it.”

Critics also warned that the ban could isolate children, drive them toward riskier online spaces like the dark web, and dissuade young users from reporting the harms they experience on social media.

Social media companies had requested a delay in the legislation’s passage until at least June 2025, allowing time for a government-commissioned study to evaluate effective age-assurance technologies.

Meanwhile, some Australians see the reform as essential. Wayne Holdsworth, a Melbourne resident whose 17-year-old son, Mac, took his own life last year after falling victim to an online sextortion scam, described the bill as “absolutely essential for the safety of our children.”

“It’s not the only thing that we need to do to protect them because education is the key, but to provide some immediate support for our children and parents to be able to manage this, it’s a great step,” Holdsworth told The Associated Press. He called the reform “the greatest time in our country’s history.”

The Senate will debate the bill later on Wednesday. If passed, Australia will set a global precedent for regulating children’s access to social media while sparking further debates on privacy, safety, and digital rights worldwide.

Brawner: Security ni VP Sara pinalitan ng bagong AFP at PNP personnel

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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Brawner: Security ni VP Sara pinalitan ng bagong AFP at PNP personnel

MAYNILA. Papalitan pansamantala ng mga bagong tauhan mula sa Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) at Philippine National Police (PNP)ang Ang Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG) upang masiguro ang maayos na seguridad ni Vice President Sara Duterte, ayon kay AFP Chief General Romeo Brawner Jr.

Sa isang ambush interview nitong Miyerkules, ipinaliwanag ni Brawner na ang hakbang na ito ay kaugnay sa subpoena na natanggap mula sa PNP laban sa ilang miyembro ng VPSPG.

“The reason why we are doing this is because we received a subpoena from [the] Philippine National Police. Iimbestigahan yung mga members ng VPSPG. Hindi pa namin alam yung specifics ng kaso or yung investigation,” ani Brawner.

Dagdag pa niya, “But because may subpoena sila, it means to say hindi nila kayang gampanan yung tungkulin nila to protect and secure the Vice President. That is why we are temporarily pulling them out, replacing them. We are going to replace them.”

Bagamat hindi pa malinaw ang detalye ng imbestigasyon, tiniyak ni Brawner na ang pansamantalang pagpapalit ng seguridad ay hindi makakaapekto sa proteksyon ng Pangalawang Pangulo. Ayon sa opisyal, ang bagong mga personnel mula sa AFP at PNP ay agad na magsisimula ng kanilang tungkulin upang matiyak ang kaligtasan ni VP Duterte.

Patuloy na inaasahan ang karagdagang impormasyon ukol sa imbestigasyon laban sa mga miyembro ng VPSPG.

Israel and Hezbollah enter ceasefire after 14 months of conflict

Venus L Peñaflor
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Israel and Hezbollah enter ceasefire after 14 months of conflict

JERUSALEM. Israel and Lebanon-based Hezbollah militants began a tenuous ceasefire early Wednesday, signaling a potential end to nearly 14 months of intense fighting. The agreement, brokered by the United States and France, has raised hopes for regional stability while leaving lingering questions about its durability.

The ceasefire took effect at 4 a.m., a day after Israel launched its most extensive airstrikes on Beirut since the conflict began. According to local authorities, at least 42 people were killed in strikes across Lebanon, underscoring the toll of recent escalations. Celebratory gunfire rang out in parts of Beirut’s southern suburbs, heavily targeted in recent weeks, though no violations of the truce were immediately reported.

Under the agreement, Hezbollah is required to withdraw its armed presence from southern Lebanon, while Israeli forces are to pull back to their side of the border. Thousands of additional Lebanese troops and U.N. peacekeepers will be deployed in the area, with an international panel led by the United States tasked with monitoring compliance over the next two months.

Despite the ceasefire, an Israeli military spokesman warned civilians against returning to southern Lebanon, stating in an Arabic-language post on X that the military remains positioned and alert. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed this stance, declaring, “If Hezbollah breaks the agreement and tries to rearm, we will attack. For every violation, we will attack with might.” Netanyahu also emphasized that the ceasefire serves to isolate Hamas in Gaza and redirect focus to Israel’s primary adversary, Iran.

The ceasefire does not address the ongoing war in Gaza, where Hamas continues to hold dozens of hostages. U.S. President Joe Biden praised the agreement as “good news” and affirmed Israel’s right to resume operations if Hezbollah violates the truce. “This deal was designed to be a permanent cessation of hostilities,” Biden stated during a speech in Washington, adding that efforts for a ceasefire in Gaza would be renewed.

Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati welcomed the ceasefire, describing it as a crucial step toward stability and the eventual return of displaced residents. Hezbollah has accepted the agreement but expressed reservations about its final terms. “After reviewing the agreement signed by the enemy government, we will see if there is a match between what we stated and what was agreed upon by the Lebanese officials,” said Mahmoud Qamati, deputy chair of Hezbollah’s political council, in an interview with Al Jazeera. “We want an end to the aggression, of course, but not at the expense of the sovereignty of the state. Any violation of sovereignty is refused.”

The ceasefire comes amid fears of a wider conflict involving Iran, which supports both Hezbollah and Hamas. Earlier this year, Israel and Iran exchanged direct fire on two occasions, raising alarms about the possibility of an expanded war. Netanyahu’s office stated that while it appreciated U.S. efforts in securing the truce, Israel “reserves the right to act against every threat to its security.”

As the region cautiously watches the ceasefire unfold, questions remain about its enforceability and the potential for further violence. The agreement may reduce the immediate risk of escalation, but the path to lasting peace appears fraught with challenges.

Israel launches deadly strikes in Lebanon amid progress in ceasefire talks with Hezbollah

Venus L Peñaflor
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Israel launches deadly strikes in Lebanon amid progress in ceasefire talks with Hezbollah

BEIRUT. Israeli airstrikes targeted multiple locations across Lebanon on Monday, leaving at least 31 people dead as diplomatic efforts toward a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah gained momentum. The strikes hit residential and commercial areas, intensifying the toll of a conflict that has spanned over a year.

Israeli airstrikes hit Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut’s southern suburbs, the port city of Tyre, and Baalbek-Hermel in the northeast, causing massive destruction. Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported casualties, with 26 killed in southern Lebanon, four in Baalbek-Hermel, and one in Choueifat, a neighborhood that had not received prior evacuation warnings.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of devastation, with explosions lighting up the night sky and debris strewn across streets. Some strikes landed near Christian neighborhoods and areas adjacent to evacuation zones.

The conflict has displaced over 1.2 million people in Lebanon, according to the Health Ministry, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence. DNA testing may be required to identify some of the victims due to the severity of their injuries.

Progress in Ceasefire Negotiations

Despite the escalated violence, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Security Cabinet is set to discuss a proposed ceasefire on Tuesday. Israeli Ambassador to the U.N. Danny Danon stated that any agreement would likely involve multiple stages. “It’s not going to happen overnight,” Danon cautioned, adding, “We expect discussions to continue into next week.”

The ceasefire plan under consideration includes a withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon and a corresponding retreat of Hezbollah fighters from areas south of the Litani River. Thousands of Lebanese army troops, alongside U.N. peacekeeping forces, would patrol the border region under the proposed deal.

However, Israel has insisted on retaining the right to strike in Lebanon if Hezbollah violates the agreement. Lebanon’s government has rejected this condition, citing concerns about sovereignty.

The ceasefire, if finalized, could ease regional tensions that have raised fears of a broader conflict involving Iran. A senior U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity, emphasized the delicate nature of the negotiations, saying, “Nothing is done until everything is done.”

Meanwhile, Hezbollah has dropped its earlier demand that a ceasefire be contingent on ending the war in Gaza. Hamas, Hezbollah’s ally, voiced support for the proposed ceasefire. “Any announcement of a ceasefire is welcome,” said Hamas official Osama Hamdan during an interview with Lebanon’s Al-Mayadeen broadcaster.

Within Israel, hardliner opposition to the ceasefire remains strong. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir criticized the deal, calling it a “missed historic opportunity to eradicate Hezbollah.”

In the broader international arena, concerns persist about the consequences of failed negotiations. Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi warned, “Failure to reach a ceasefire will doom the region to more killing, hatred, and destruction.”

As the region holds its breath, the proposed ceasefire represents a glimmer of hope amidst relentless violence and mounting casualties. Whether this fragile peace can hold remains uncertain, but for the millions affected by the conflict, the stakes could not be higher.

“Joy”: Netflix’s heartwarming tribute to resilience, science, and the first IVF baby

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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“Joy”: Netflix’s heartwarming tribute to resilience, science, and the first IVF baby

Netflix’s “Joy” is an uplifting exploration of human determination, scientific innovation, and the unyielding desire to create life. Directed by Ben Taylor, this poignant film recounts the true story of the first successful in vitro fertilization (IVF), leading to the birth of the world’s first IVF baby in England in 1978—a groundbreaking achievement that has since transformed the lives of millions.

The film centers on the trio behind this scientific milestone: Robert Edwards, a visionary scientist; Jean Purdy, a young nurse and embryologist; and Patrick Steptoe, a skilled surgeon. The heartfelt moment of a newborn’s cry near the end of the film symbolizes not only the triumph of their decade-long efforts but also the broader implications of their groundbreaking work.

Thomasin McKenzie delivers a captivating performance as Purdy, portraying her as both vulnerable and resilient. Purdy’s journey reflects personal growth amidst professional challenges and societal backlash. Her declaration, “If I hear a commotion, I’m not very good at staying out of it,” encapsulates her indomitable spirit. James Norton embodies Robert Edwards with a blend of charm, doubt, and quiet determination, while Bill Nighy’s portrayal of Steptoe brings understated strength and wisdom to the narrative.

Science Against All Odds

Jack Thorne’s script sheds light on the immense obstacles faced by the trio. In the late 1970s, IVF was considered experimental and morally contentious. Religious groups deemed it sinful, newspapers sensationalized it as unnatural, and even fellow scientists raised the alarm over potential “freak babies.” Steptoe, played with gravitas by Nighy, succinctly warns his colleagues: “You’re aware they’ll throw the book at us. We will unite them all against us.”

The film also emphasizes Purdy’s personal sacrifices. Her own mother admonishes her with the words, “You can’t play God with this,” as Purdy faces ostracism from her family and church. Yet, she perseveres, asserting, “This fight is ours. We don’t have a choice.” The narrative honors not just the scientists but also the courageous women who volunteered for experimental treatments, pushing the boundaries of medicine.

A Story of Triumph and Humanity

Director Ben Taylor masterfully crafts a series of intimate moments, presenting the story almost like a stage play. Quiet bravery and small yet profound conversations anchor the narrative, reflecting the unassuming yet transformative power of science. The film’s witty and emotional soundtrack—featuring tracks like “Here Comes the Sun” by George Harrison and “Yes We Can Can” by Lee Dorsey—adds a layer of charm and poignancy, with each song encapsulating the emotions of the time.

While “Joy” celebrates triumph, it does not shy away from depicting the frustrations, losses, and tears that accompany progress. The filmmakers highlight the trio’s argument that IVF is no different from other medical interventions, like glasses for vision or dentures for dental health—an argument that resonates even today, as science faces renewed skepticism.

Final Thoughts

At its core, “Joy” is a tribute to human perseverance and the power of science to change lives. It’s a reminder that even amidst doubt and opposition, breakthroughs can occur when people refuse to give up. The sound of a baby’s first cry, as depicted in the film, encapsulates this sense of hope and achievement.

Netflix’s “Joy” is rated PG-13 for thematic material, brief strong language, some sexual references, and surgical imagery. With a runtime of 115 minutes, it’s a deeply moving cinematic experience, earning a well-deserved three and a half stars out of four.

Lebanese sources: Biden, Macron expected to announce Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire

Venus L Peñaflor
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Lebanese sources: Biden, Macron expected to announce Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire

JERUSALEM/BEIRUT. A ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel is reportedly on the verge of being announced by U.S. President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron, according to four senior Lebanese sources. The truce comes after months of escalating violence along the Israel-Lebanon border, fueled by nearly a year of cross-border hostilities.

In Washington, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby acknowledged the progress, stating, “We’re close,” but cautioned that, “nothing is done until everything is done.” Similarly, the French presidency reported significant advancements in ceasefire discussions.

An Israeli official confirmed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet is set to meet on Tuesday to finalize the deal. While Netanyahu’s office declined to comment directly, sources indicated the cabinet would discuss the proposed text of the truce.

However, tensions remain high, with heavy Israeli airstrikes targeting Beirut’s Hezbollah-controlled southern suburbs as part of Israel’s offensive launched in September.

Israel’s UN ambassador, Danny Danon, emphasized that Israel intends to maintain its ability to strike southern Lebanon under the agreement. Lebanon, meanwhile, has raised objections to provisions that would permit such actions.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller highlighted the complexity of the negotiations, saying, “Oftentimes the very last stages of an agreement are the most difficult because the hardest issues are left to the end. We are pushing as hard as we can.”

The proposed ceasefire aims to resolve fighting that escalated in October 2023, occurring alongside Israel’s ongoing war against Hamas in Gaza.

Implementation Details

Lebanon’s Deputy Parliament Speaker Elias Bou Saab expressed optimism, stating that there were “no serious obstacles” remaining unless Netanyahu reversed his position. According to Saab, the U.S.-backed proposal involves an Israeli military withdrawal from southern Lebanon and the deployment of Lebanese army troops in the area, a Hezbollah stronghold, within 60 days.

A critical sticking point over monitoring the ceasefire was resolved with an agreement to establish a five-nation committee, including France, chaired by the United States.

As the region watches closely, the potential announcement marks a significant step toward de-escalating one of the most volatile conflicts in the Middle East.\

Isa pang staff ni VP Sara Duterte, naospital matapos dumalo sa house probe tungkol sa confidential fund

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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Isa pang staff ni VP Sara Duterte, naospital matapos dumalo sa house probe tungkol sa confidential fund

MAYNILA. Isa pang staff ni Vice President Sara Duterte ang naospital matapos dumalo sa imbestigasyon ng Kamara ukol sa paggamit ng Office of the Vice President (OVP) at Department of Education (DepEd) ng milyun-milyong pisong confidential fund.

Nitong Lunes, Nobyembre 25, isinugod sa Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) si Special Disbursement Officer Gina Acosta matapos tumaas ang kanyang blood pressure habang sumasagot sa mga tanong ng mga kongresista.

“Ms. Gina [Acosta] is currently unresponsive for now so House Medical Director Luis Bautista declared it an emergency,” ayon kay Atty. Leandro Resurreccion IV.

Sa gitna ng imbestigasyon, sinabi ni Acosta na noong 2022 ay kanyang ini-release ang P125 milyong confidential funds ng OVP sa isang Colonel Lachica, pinuno ng Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG). Sinabi niya na ginawa niya ito batay sa direktiba umano ni Vice President Duterte

“May approval po kay Ma’am Inday Sara,” sagot ni Acosta sa tanong ni Batangas Representative Gerville Luistro.

Nang tanungin kung ibibigay ba niya ang pondo kay Lachica kung walang pahintulot ni Duterte, mariin niyang sinabi, “Hindi po.”

“I trust Sir Lachica po kasi tina-trust po siya ng aking head of [OVP] office na si Ma’am Inday Sara [Duterte],” dagdag pa niya.

Ayon kay Luistro, ang Presidential Decree 1445 ay nagbabawal sa isang disbursing officer na ipasa ang responsibilidad ng pamamahala sa pondo sa ibang tao. Dahil dito, maaari umanong maharap si Acosta sa kasong malversation of public funds.

Ipinaliwanag ni Acosta na ginawa niya lamang ang direktiba ng kanyang superior.
“Nanaig po ang aking belief na may trust po ako kay Lachica dahil authorized po ni Ma’am Sara Duterte,” aniya. “Wala po akong alam kung paano i-implement ang confidential activities. Si Sir Lachica lang po ang may alam.”

Habang nagpapatuloy ang pagdinig, bigla na lamang sumama ang pakiramdam ni Acosta. Dahil dito, agad siyang inalalayan ni VP Duterte papunta sa ambulansya bago dinala sa ospital.

Ang nasabing pagdinig ay bahagi ng patuloy na pagsisiyasat sa paggamit ng confidential funds ng OVP at DepEd.

Biden and Macron expected to announce Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire

Venus L Peñaflor
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0
Biden and Macron expected to announce Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire

JERUSALEM/BEIRUT. A significant diplomatic breakthrough appears to be imminent as U.S. President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron are poised to announce a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, according to four senior Lebanese sources. The announcement could end months of escalating violence along the Israel-Lebanon border.

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby confirmed progress, stating, “We’re close,” but cautioned, “nothing is done until everything is done.” Similarly, the French presidency noted substantial advancements in ceasefire discussions, raising hopes for a resolution.

In Jerusalem, a senior Israeli official revealed that Israel’s cabinet is scheduled to convene on Tuesday to approve the truce terms. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has declined to comment on reports suggesting that a final deal has been agreed upon.

Escalating Tensions Amid Ongoing Talks

As negotiations progress, Israel intensified its airstrikes on Hezbollah-controlled southern suburbs of Beirut, continuing an offensive that began in September following nearly a year of cross-border hostilities. Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, emphasized that any agreement would allow Israel to retain the right to strike southern Lebanon if deemed necessary.

This stance has faced resistance from Lebanon, which has previously opposed granting Israel such provisions. Lebanese Deputy Parliament Speaker Elias Bou Saab shared optimism but highlighted the precarious nature of the talks, warning that “unless Netanyahu changes his mind,” the agreement could still face hurdles.

Key Terms of the Ceasefire Proposal

The U.S.-proposed agreement reportedly includes the following key provisions:

  • An Israeli military withdrawal from southern Lebanon.
  • Deployment of regular Lebanese army troops to the border region, a stronghold of Hezbollah, within 60 days.
  • A five-nation monitoring committee led by the United States and including France to oversee compliance.

Lebanese officials confirmed that a major sticking point over compliance monitoring was resolved in the past 24 hours, paving the way for the agreement’s implementation.

Broader Implications

The conflict in Lebanon has escalated significantly since October 2023, coinciding with Israel’s ongoing war against Hamas in Gaza. The proposed ceasefire aims to halt the hostilities, which have caused widespread destruction and heightened regional tensions.

Despite progress, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller highlighted the challenges of finalizing the agreement, stating, “Oftentimes the very last stages of an agreement are the most difficult because the hardest issues are left to the end. We are pushing as hard as we can.”

If approved, the ceasefire could mark a turning point in stabilizing the region, offering a reprieve to both sides after months of intense conflict.

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