Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Israel Katz, and Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir announced that they are determined to maintain Israel's military presence in southern Lebanon.
A joint statement released by the Prime Minister's Office said that the Israeli army will act decisively to prevent threats to Israeli soldiers and civilians, destroy terrorist 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, which stipulates the preservation of Lebanon's indivisibility and territorial integrity.
Israeli sources speaking to Axios conveyed that Tel Aviv is concerned about the Lebanon-related part of the agreement. The sources said Netanyahu is worried that 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'.
US messages
Israeli channel Channel 13 reported that Tel Aviv has received messages from the US in recent weeks that 'Israel's ability to operate without restrictions in Lebanon has come to an end'.
Israeli media reported that the US is handling southern Lebanon within a broad regional framework that includes the security of the Strait of Hormuz, energy markets, and the Iranian nuclear file, while Israel believes that an early withdrawal would be perceived as a sign of weakness.
The Israel Broadcasting Authority noted that Israel is taking into account the possibility of a gradual withdrawal from the Lebanese territory it calls a 'security zone' following a US decision.
US reassurances
US officials sought to allay Israel's concerns. A US official speaking to Axios said that Israel should not worry about the new mechanism established for Lebanon, and that the direct channel set up between Washington and Tehran on this file would benefit Israel.
Axios also reported that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and his team are fully aware of the new de-escalation mechanism and believe it will support mediation efforts between Lebanon and Israel.
A Lebanese official speaking to Axios said that 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 US State Department official speaking to CNN said that the talks, consisting of two tracks—military and political—will begin today.
The official said the talks aim to end the cycle of violence and achieve broad understandings on security and stability between the two sides.
Israel has controlled some areas in southern Lebanon for many years, captured other areas during the 2023-2024 war, and advanced up to 10 kilometers into Lebanese territory in the latest offensive.
