In a sharp escalation just hours after the announcement of a two-week US-Iran ceasefire, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has warned that its air and missile units will strike Tel Aviv if Israeli military operations do not stop in southern Lebanon. The threat highlights deep divisions over whether the fragile truce applies to the ongoing Israel-Hezbollah conflict.
Iran’s Direct Warning to Israel
According to Iranian state media, the National Security Council stated:
“Within a few hours, if the firing does not stop in southern Lebanon, the air and missile unit will bomb Tel Aviv.”
This ultimatum comes amid reports of continued Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) activity against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, despite the broader ceasefire with Iran. Iran views attacks on its ally Hezbollah as part of the wider regional conflict and has conditioned full de-escalation on halting operations in Lebanon.
Conflicting Positions on the Ceasefire
- US-Iran Two-Week Ceasefire: Announced on April 7-8, 2026, the truce — brokered with Pakistani mediation — includes a pause in US and coalition strikes on Iran and the reopening of safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Negotiations are set to begin Friday in Islamabad.
- Israel’s Stance: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has explicitly stated that the two-week ceasefire does not include Lebanon. The IDF confirmed it has ceased fire against Iran proper but continues “targeted ground operations” against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon in accordance with political directives.
- Iran and Mediators: Iran and Pakistani officials initially indicated the deal should cover all fronts, including Lebanon. The discrepancy has created immediate friction and raised fears that the truce could collapse quickly.
The situation remains highly fluid. No strikes on Tel Aviv have been reported yet, and both sides appear to be on high alert.