Deep Dive
Why was a 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon brokered, and what are its key terms?
The ceasefire was brokered by the U.S. and France to end the fighting across the Israeli-Lebanese border, which has killed thousands since the conflict was ignited by the war in Gaza last year. The key terms include Israel withdrawing its ground troops from Lebanon and halting air strikes, while Hezbollah moves its fighters and weapons north of the Litani River, about 20 miles from the Israeli border. The Lebanese army and UN peacekeepers will deploy in southern Lebanon, and an international committee will monitor the agreement.
Why did security forces disperse protesters in Pakistan's capital, and what were the protesters demanding?
Security forces dispersed protesters in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, who were demanding the release of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The protesters defied tear gas and climbed over shipping containers to reach the city center, leading to violent clashes. Six people were killed, including four security personnel, and dozens were injured during the crackdown.
Why is President-elect Donald Trump threatening tariffs against Canada, Mexico, and China?
Trump is threatening tariffs to pressure these countries to do more to stop undocumented migrants and fentanyl from crossing into the U.S. He claims these issues are major problems and that the countries could easily solve them. However, experts say it's not feasible for these countries to completely stop the flow of fentanyl or migrants.
Why is the situation in southern Lebanon described as looking like Gaza, and what is the scale of recovery needed?
Southern Lebanon, particularly areas in the south and Beirut's southern suburbs, has been completely destroyed, resembling the aftermath of the conflict in Gaza. The scale of recovery is massive, with reconstruction expected to take years or even decades. Parts of the region are described as being orders of magnitude more devastated compared to the last war in 2006.
Why are some Israeli officials opposing the ceasefire, and what are their concerns?
Some Israeli officials, particularly mayors in the north, are opposing the ceasefire due to real security concerns. They fear a resumption of Hezbollah attacks and the possibility of another major attack like the one on October 7. They are concerned about the safety of their residents and the stability of the region.
Why is the government in Pakistan taking a tough line against the protesters, and what are the implications?
The government in Pakistan is taking a tough line against the protesters, interpreting the dispersed protests as a victory. They are playing on the anger of protesters who feel their leaders fled during the crackdown. This could lead to a cycle of increasingly violent encounters, reflecting a crisis of legitimacy at the top, including a loss of confidence in public institutions and the army.
Why are experts concerned about the potential impact of Trump's tariff threats on international cooperation?
Experts are concerned that Trump's tariff threats could unravel growing international cooperation targeting drug traffickers. A trade fight could lead to less pressure on gangs smuggling fentanyl, and it could also distract from public health responses that have been effective in reducing fatal overdoses.
- The ceasefire was brokered by the U.S. and France and announced by President Biden.
- Celebratory gunfire erupted across Lebanon as people celebrated the ceasefire.
- Many people may find their homes destroyed, and the scale of recovery will take years, perhaps even decades.
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