Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel would uphold a 10-kilometer security zone in southern Lebanon even after the ceasefire with Hezbollah. This decision came following a ceasefire agreement brokered by US President Donald Trump, scheduled to commence at 5 p.m. US Eastern Time. Netanyahu clarified that Israeli forces would not withdraw to the international border as demanded by Hezbollah but would remain in the security zone to prevent invasions and anti-tank fire into Israeli communities.
Netanyahu expressed optimism about the potential for a historic peace deal with Lebanon, mentioning Trump’s intention to invite him and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to advance negotiations. He highlighted Israel’s altered power dynamics in Lebanon, citing incoming calls from Lebanon for direct peace talks. In these discussions, Israel’s key demands include the disarmament of Hezbollah and the establishment of a lasting peace agreement.
Regarding Iran, Netanyahu disclosed that Trump affirmed his commitment to maintaining a naval blockade and dismantling Iran’s remaining nuclear capabilities. He emphasized the strategic significance of these actions in reshaping Israel’s security and political landscape for the foreseeable future. Trump’s announcement of a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon aims to de-escalate tensions related to the Iran conflict, particularly concerning Hezbollah’s activities in southern Lebanon.
