A peace agreement between the United States and Iran, signed on Sunday, mandates Israel’s complete withdrawal from southern Lebanon, according to the details of the agreement.
Following a period of heightened tension and exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah, U.S. officials confirmed on Tuesday that a memorandum seems to favor Iran along with its proxy groups.
The memorandum emphasizes that Lebanon’s sovereignty must be respected, which effectively compels Israel to withdraw its troops from the southern region, a significant step since the 2006 conflict.
According to the agreement, “The United States, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and their allies in the ongoing conflict declare an immediate and permanent halt to military operations on all fronts, particularly in Lebanon. They commit to avoiding future conflicts or military actions against each other and to ensuring Lebanon’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.”
Additionally, it states, “The final agreement confirms the permanent cessation of the war on all fronts, including Lebanon, as well as other stipulations in this section.”
This requirement clashes directly with Israel’s stance, as the Israeli Defense Ministry reaffirmed its intention to keep troops stationed in both Syria and Gaza.
Israel’s commitment to its security has led officials, including Katz, to say, “We will not compromise Israel’s security interests and the protection of its people, and we will not withdraw from the security zone.”
Israeli leaders have voiced strong opposition to the terms, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu labeling it a “Trump decision,” indicating some distance from the agreement.
As new attacks against Hezbollah targets were launched on Wednesday, it’s unclear how strictly Israel will adhere to the deal.
If Israel follows through with its withdrawal, it could be seen as a significant development for Hezbollah, whose leadership and forces have faced heavy losses over nearly three years of warfare.
