Beirut Celebrates Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire as Fireworks and Gunfire Light Up the Night Sky

**Central Message**

(CNA Beirut, April 17, via foreign news agencies) - As the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon takes effect, the skyline of Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, was lit up by fireworks and celebratory gunfire around midnight local time.

CNN, citing local media, reported intense celebratory gunfire in the southern suburbs of Beirut, with videos showing streaks of red light in the sky. The southern suburbs of Beirut are home to a large number of armed members of the militant group Hezbollah.

Lebanon was drawn into the war against Iran waged by the US in alliance with Israel after Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel.

US President Donald Trump earlier stated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun agreed to a 10-day ceasefire starting from 21:00 GMT on the 16th, while also noting that this agreement would cover Hezbollah.

AFP reported that Netanyahu said today that this ceasefire offers an opportunity for an "historic peace agreement" between Israel and Lebanon, but emphasized that the disarmament of Hezbollah remains a prerequisite.

In a televised address, he stated: "We have an opportunity to conclude a historic peace agreement with Lebanon."

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam also said he welcomed the ceasefire, calling it what Lebanon has pursued since the first day of the war between Hezbollah and Israel.

Salam stated: "While I congratulate all the Lebanese people on this achievement, I pray for mercy for the martyrs and express my support for their families." He also thanked several European and Arab countries for their "efforts" to bring about the ceasefire. (Compiled by Yang Zhaoyan) 1150417

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