Fears are rising that the peace agreement between US President Donald Trump and Iran may face obstacles from Israel, as Israel has declared its intention to maintain troops in Lebanon indefinitely. The resolution of conflicts with Israel’s neighboring country Lebanon is seen as a crucial factor for Tehran in the upcoming agreement set to be finalized this week. Reports emerged on Monday of Israeli airstrikes and artillery strikes on Hezbollah strongholds in southern Lebanon, contrary to the expected terms of the impending deal.
Shortly after Trump’s announcement of the new peace deal, which includes a 60-day negotiation period to be ratified by both parties in Switzerland on Friday, Israel continued its military actions in southern Lebanon. Despite repeated demands by Tehran for Lebanon and Hezbollah to be part of any long-term agreement related to Trump’s stance on Iran, Israeli leaders have stood firm on keeping troops in southern Lebanon, indicating a continuation of hostilities with Hezbollah.
Iran has issued a warning, holding the US responsible for any Israeli attacks on Lebanon, as it believes Israel’s actions are coordinated with the US. Tensions have escalated between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump, with Netanyahu facing pressure to combat Hezbollah, potentially jeopardizing the prospects of an agreement with Iran that seeks to involve Hezbollah.
The Memorandum of Understanding will initiate a 60-day consultation period, addressing critical issues like the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and discussions on Iran’s nuclear program. The agreement is rumored to include significant financial reparations, asset unfreezing, and relief from sanctions in exchange for cessation of hostilities. However, Iran is insistent that any deal must encompass Lebanon, including Hezbollah, or risk rejection.
Iran’s Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of Lebanon in the agreement, stressing the need to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty. Israel’s Defense Minister affirmed the decision to maintain troops in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza indefinitely for security purposes. Israeli officials have warned of strong retaliation if Iran attacks Israel due to events in Lebanon.
Despite criticisms from some Israeli politicians regarding the exclusion of Israel from the agreement, Trump expressed disappointment over Israel’s recent military actions, especially as the peace deal with Iran was nearing finalization.