Amid an agreement announced between the United States and Iran to end the war in the region, the Israeli government made it clear that it does not consider itself bound by the clauses involving Lebanon
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu communicated directly to President Donald Trump that Israel does not intend to withdraw its forces from current positions in southern Lebanon and will continue to operate to ensure its security.
Defense Minister Israel Katz firmly reinforced this position.
According to him, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will remain in the security zones in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza for as long as necessary, with no defined deadline.
The objective is to protect Israeli communities close to the border against threats from jihadist groups, such as Hezbollah, which is supported by Iran.
Katz also warned that, if Iran attacks Israel because of the situation in Lebanon, the country will respond with all its strength.
The agreement between Washington and Tehran, which is expected to be signed soon, provides for the end of hostilities, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program.
Iranian sources indicate that it also includes a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.
However, Israel – which participated in the start of the clashes alongside the US – was not included in the negotiations and considers that the text does not meet its main security objectives.
Ministers from Netanyahu’s coalition, such as Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, expressed strong rejection of the agreement.
They claim that Israel is a sovereign country and that the understanding does not oblige them to withdraw troops from conquered territories in Lebanon.
On the other side, opposition leaders criticized the prime minister, saying the agreement represents a strategic failure and leaves residents of northern Israel exposed to new risks.
Israeli military sources emphasize that operations in Lebanon will continue in accordance with security objectives, with a focus on destroying terrorist infrastructure and preventing new threats.
The country maintains the position that it will not give up its freedom of action to protect its citizens, regardless of external pressure.
This stance reflects Israel’s determination to prioritize its defense at a time of great regional tension, even with the announcement of a possible formal end to the war between the US and Iran.
Published in 06/15/2026 11h08
Text adapted by AI (Grok) and translated via Google API in the English version. Images from public image libraries or credits in the caption.
Reference article: