Israel signaled it will not alter its military position in Lebanon despite the newly announced U.S.-Iran peace agreement, with Defense Minister Israel Katz declaring that Israeli forces will remain in seized Lebanese territory and warning Tehran against any retaliation linked to ongoing operations against Hezbollah.
The comments came shortly after President Donald Trump announced a tentative agreement with Iran aimed at ending the conflict and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy corridor. The agreement is expected to be formally signed in Switzerland later this week following preparatory talks in Qatar.
Katz made clear that Israel's security policy remains unchanged despite the diplomatic breakthrough between Washington and Tehran.
If Iran responds to Israeli military actions through direct attacks or its regional allies, Israel will respond "with full force," Katz said, adding that the country will continue pursuing its objectives "despite all the existing pressures and those that will still come."
The statement highlights a potential obstacle for the broader peace effort, as Israel was not directly involved in negotiations between the United States and Iran. Reports surrounding the agreement have suggested it could include provisions related to a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, though no official details have been released.
David Mencer, a spokesman for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, emphasized that Israel and the United States remain aligned on preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He also stressed that Israel would not tolerate attacks from Hezbollah, the Iran-backed group operating in Lebanon.
Iran repeatedly warned during negotiations that Israeli military actions in Lebanon could undermine talks with Washington. The issue became increasingly sensitive as Trump pushed to finalize the agreement, reportedly expressing frustration over renewed Israeli strikes while negotiations were underway.
Trump announced the deal on Sunday, describing it as a major diplomatic achievement.
"This Great Deal will bring Peace and Security to the whole Region. Many presidents have tried to make Peace with Iran, and all have failed before me," Trump wrote on social media.
He added: "With the opening of the Strait upon the signing of the Deal on Friday, for purposes of mine removal, oil will flow on both ends again for the Region, and the World!"
As diplomats prepare for the Switzerland signing, Israel's refusal to withdraw from Lebanon underscores the challenges facing efforts to transform a U.S.-Iran agreement into broader regional stability.
