Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Thursday that Israel will not withdraw from its security zone in southern Lebanon despite language in the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding that calls for an end to military operations on all fronts.
A senior U.S. official, who reviewed the agreement, stated it requires “the immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon,” while mandating both parties refrain from future military actions and respect Lebanon’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Hezbollah has interpreted this provision as requiring Israel to leave Lebanese territory, warning that a continued Israeli military presence would constitute a violation of the agreement. Similarly, Iran has asserted that the deal necessitates an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stating earlier in the week that any Israeli forces remaining in Lebanon breach the agreement.
Hezbollah has also indicated that Tehran will not sign a final agreement with Washington unless Israel withdraws from Lebanon and that Iran has committed to pressuring the group for such a withdrawal during upcoming negotiations.
At a road inauguration event Thursday, Netanyahu rejected these interpretations. He declared: “Just as we restored security and prosperity to the Gaza envelope, so we will restore security and prosperity to the northern communities.”
Netanyahu added: “This requires maintaining the security zone in southern Lebanon, and it dictates that we will not withdraw from there as long as Israel’s security needs require it.”
The Prime Minister noted his remarks could create friction as the Trump administration works to implement the memorandum and launch a 60-day negotiating process aimed at addressing Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief, and regional security issues.
Netanyahu expressed gratitude for U.S. support during the conflict: “The struggle is not yet over, and additional challenges lie ahead,” he stated. “These require of us composure, a resolute stand on our security interests, and at the same time, maintaining the important connection with our American friends who fought shoulder to shoulder alongside us.”
