According to a report from American news site Axios, an advisor to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel does not consider itself bound by the Lebanon clause in the recently signed memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran.
The advisor mentioned that Netanyahu informed the U.S. President that Israel would not withdraw from areas it controls in Southern Lebanon unless Hezbollah is completely disarmed.
These statements highlight a potential divergence between the Israeli stance and the outcomes of the U.S.-Iran understanding, as Tel Aviv continues to emphasize that any future security arrangements along the northern border must include the end of Hezbollah's military presence and prevent its repositioning near the border.
This development comes amid anticipation of the implications of the U.S.-Iran agreement on several regional issues, including the situation in Lebanon, the future of Hezbollah's presence south of the Litani River, and the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, passed in 2006.
Sunday Messages
Last Sunday, former President Trump sent a stern message to Netanyahu following the Israeli strike on Beirut, expressing his displeasure at its execution shortly before the expected signing of the agreement with Iran.
In statements to Israel's Channel 12, he further expressed dissatisfaction with the military operation, noting that its timing particularly angered him, as it came just before reaching a deal he deemed significant.
Trump questioned, "Why did Bibi carry out this strike?" adding that Hezbollah's attack did not result in injuries, and that Israel's response in Beirut greatly displeased him.