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Israeli leaders determined to maintain military presence in Lebanon
Prime Minister Netanyahu, Defense Minister Katz and Chief of Staff Zamir announced that military operations will continue in the area of southern Lebanon they call a 'security zone'.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Israel Katz and Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir stated that Israel is determined to maintain its military presence in southern Lebanon.
In a joint statement released by the Prime Minister's Office, it was noted that the Israeli army will 'act with determination to prevent threats to Israeli soldiers and civilians, destroy terror infrastructure and protect the security zone in southern Lebanon.'
According to the statement, the security of Israel and its army will be protected as a priority 'without any compromise.'
Concern over US-Iran agreement
Israel's statement came at a time when a new agreement was signed between the US and Iran that envisions preserving Lebanon's indivisibility and territorial integrity.
Israeli sources speaking to Axios relayed that Tel Aviv is worried about the Lebanon-related section of this agreement. The sources expressed that Netanyahu is concerned it will 'operationally legitimize' Iran's influence in Lebanon and restrict the Israeli army's freedom of movement.
One Israeli source said Netanyahu cares more about the Lebanon issue than Iran's nuclear program and is in 'a hysterical state.'
Messages from the US
Israeli channel Channel 13 reported that in recent weeks Tel Aviv has received messages from the US indicating that 'Israel's ability to operate without restrictions in Lebanon has ended.'
Reports in the Israeli press stated that the US views southern Lebanon within a broad regional framework including the security of the Strait of Hormuz, energy markets and the Iranian nuclear file, while Israel believes an early withdrawal would be perceived as a sign of weakness.
The Israel Broadcasting Corporation noted that Israel is considering the possibility of a phased withdrawal demand from the Lebanese territory it defines as a 'security zone' through a US decision.
Reassurances from the US
American officials tried to allay Israel's concerns. A US official speaking to Axios stated that Israel should not worry about the new mechanism created for Lebanon, and that the direct channel established between Washington and Tehran on this file will benefit Israel.
It was relayed that Secretary of State Marco Rubio and his team are fully aware of the entire new de-escalation mechanism and believe it will support mediation efforts between Lebanon and Israel.
A Lebanese official speaking to Axios said President Joseph Aoun is ready to accept this US-led mechanism.
New talks begin
The US is preparing for a new round of talks between Lebanon and Israel. A State Department official speaking to CNN said that the talks, consisting of two channels—military and political—will begin today.
The official stated that the talks aim to end the cycle of violence and establish broad understandings on security and stability between the two sides.
Israel has controlled some areas of southern Lebanon for many years, captured some areas during the 2023-2024 war, and advanced up to 10 kilometers into the territory in the latest attack.
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