Israel’s prime minister’s office published an announcement Wednesday stating that Israel is in support of the two-week ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran; however, it was noted by the prime minister’s office that this ceasefire does not include Lebanon and that this could complicate the continued peace process concerning that region. This statement came on the heels of Pakistan’s Prime Minister Sharif’s statements promoting an “immediate ceasefire everywhere (which includes Lebanon and other areas).” This occurred as a result of Iran agreeing to engage in U.S.-sponsored talks in Islamabad regarding Peace with the U.S. on Friday. The prime minister’s office stated that it supports U.S. President Donald Trump ‘s decision to suspend military operations against Iran for two weeks on the condition that Iran reopens the Strait of Hormuz and stops its military strikes against the United States; however, the prime minister’s office also stated that the ceasefire will not affect Israel’s operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Israel continues to consider Hezbollah a proxy group of the Iranian regime, and as a result, has conducted military operations in Southern Lebanon against Hezbollah.
On X, Netanyahu, stated that Israel supports Trump’s efforts to prevent Iran from “threatening America, Israel, its Arab neighbours and the world through nuclear capabilities, missile developments and terrorism.” Netanyahu added that the U.S. has committed to support Israel’s objectives in the upcoming negotiations with Iran in Pakistan.
This clarification creates immediate tension; however, Sharif had stated that both sides had agreed to a deal which would cover all allies and fronts. In addition, no Iranian representatives have publicly objected to Netanyahu not including Lebanon or its allies; nevertheless, Tehran has made it very clear on multiple occasions that any cease-fire agreement must also include a cease-fire between all of Iran’s regional allies as well, including Hezbollah.
Reports indicate that shortly after the announcement of the US-Iran understanding, Israeli forces shelled the southern Lebanese town of Baraachit, confirming that fighting along the Lebanese front has not ceased, regardless of the US-Iran understanding.
Experts are concerned that this inconsistency could negatively affect the cease-fire, as well as create the possibility for renewed tensions and conflicts throughout the region as negotiations begin in Islamabad.