A cease-fire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect following negotiations that Lebanese leaders described as risky talks with Israel. The truce marks a pause in hostilities between the two sides after an escalation in fighting.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces criticism from within Israel over the decision to agree to the cease-fire. Polling indicates that most Israelis preferred to continue military operations against Hezbollah rather than halt the campaign. Netanyahu's political opponents have questioned his handling of the situation.

The Lebanese government now finds itself managing competing pressures as it implements the cease-fire agreement. Lebanese leaders secured the truce through what sources described as high-stakes diplomatic negotiations, though the government faces ongoing challenges in balancing various domestic and international interests.

Separately, President-elect Donald Trump indicated that progress is being made toward a potential agreement with Iran, though he provided few details about the nature or timeline of such negotiations. Trump made the comments as the Lebanon cease-fire went into effect.

The cease-fire represents a temporary halt to hostilities but does not address underlying tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group based in Lebanon. The durability of the agreement remains uncertain given the complex regional dynamics and competing interests of the various parties involved.