A cease-fire between Israel and Hezbollah brokered by the U.S. and France took effect in Lebanon early Wednesday, raising hopes of ending more than a year of cross-border strikes and a full-scale war that has killed thousands.

The cease-fire between Israel and Hezbollah ended the deadliest bout of violence between the two sides in decades.

For many across the Middle East, the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire came as a relief: the first major sign of progress in the region since war began more than a year ago

The agreement halts fighting between Israel and Hezbollah for 60 days, as negotiators aim to stop Lebanon’s deadliest war in decades.

Israel has dealt massive blows against Hezbollah since going on the offensive in September. Now, a ceasefire appears likely, but there are still significant steps both sides need to take to reach an agreement,