One year ago, a Cessation of Hostilities Understanding came into effect, rapidly de-escalating two months of devastating hostilities and human suffering on both sides of the Blue Line.

The arrangement offered a ray of hope and raised expectations of more durable solutions, amidst a transformative period in the broader region.

But while the reinforced presence of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) in the south of the country, as well as momentous decisions by the Government, represented the foundation stones of a path to normalcy, today, uncertainty remains.

In fact, for too many Lebanese, the conflict is ongoing - albeit at a lower intensity. And, one does not need a crystal ball to understand that, as long as the current status quo continues, the spectre of future hostilities will continue to loom large. 

What is clear is that the time to embrace both the urgency and opportunity of the current moment is now. That goes for actors on both sides of the Blue Line. Dialogue and negotiations alone will not solve everything, but they will help to establish a baseline of outstanding commitments and, importantly, will clear the way for the security and stability both parties say they seek.

The time for talks is now. No challenge is unsurmountable. A bright future for all can be realized.