Fears are growing that the peace agreement between US President Donald Trump and Iran could face obstacles from Israel, which has declared its intention to maintain a presence in Lebanon indefinitely.
The resolution of conflicts with Israel’s neighboring country is seen as a crucial component for Tehran, shaping the upcoming deal set to be finalized this week. On Monday, there were reports of Israeli air raids and artillery strikes targeting Hezbollah strongholds in southern Lebanon, in defiance of the impending agreement.
Shortly after Trump announced the new peace deal, which includes a 60-day consultation period to be signed by both parties in Switzerland on Friday, Israel’s persistence in holding positions in southern Lebanon emerged as a contentious issue. While Tehran has consistently demanded Lebanon’s inclusion in any long-term pact regarding Trump’s policies towards Iran, Israeli leaders have affirmed their stance on maintaining troops in the region, despite indications of a cessation of hostilities along Israel’s northern border.
Iran has issued a stern warning, holding the US accountable for any Israeli military actions in Lebanon. The Iranian foreign ministry emphasized that Israel’s actions are closely coordinated with the US, and any failure to rein in Israel would have repercussions on the agreement’s integrity.
Amid escalating tensions between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump, concerns arise over the potential disruption of the Iran deal. Netanyahu’s firm stance on countering Hezbollah contrasts with Tehran’s push to extend the agreement’s scope to include Hezbollah.
The Memorandum of Understanding establishes a 60-day consultation period, initiates discussions on Iran’s nuclear program, and entails significant financial reparations, asset unfreezing, and relief from sanctions in exchange for peace. However, Iran’s insistence on Lebanon’s involvement, particularly Hezbollah’s, remains a pivotal condition for reaching a consensus.
Iran’s Foreign Minister stresses the necessity of Lebanon’s integration into the agreement, citing it as a fundamental aspect of the interim deal with the US. Meanwhile, Israeli officials, including Defense Minister Israel Katz, underline their commitment to maintaining troops in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza to safeguard borders against extremist threats.
In response to potential Israeli military actions, Israel vows a robust response if targeted by Iran due to events in Lebanon. The prospect of a broader regional conflict looms as former Defense Minister Benny Gantz criticizes the agreement with Iran, foreseeing strategic drawbacks for Israel.
Discontent surfaces within Israel’s political landscape, with criticism directed at Netanyahu for his perceived neglect in securing Israel’s interests in the agreement. Trump condemns Israel’s recent offensive in Beirut, expressing disappointment over the timing, considering the proximity to the potential peace deal with Iran.