Jerusalem/Beirut: Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed support for a U.S.-led pause in hostilities with Iran, while making it clear that the proposed ceasefire does not apply to ongoing fighting in Lebanon.
The Israeli leader backed efforts by Donald Trump to suspend strikes against Iran for a two-week period, aimed at reducing tensions and addressing concerns over Tehran’s nuclear and missile capabilities. However, Israeli officials clarified that the pause is limited to direct confrontation between the United States and Iran.
According to official statements, Israel’s military operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon will continue despite the broader diplomatic push. Recent developments indicate ongoing exchanges, including Israeli strikes and reported retaliatory actions by Hezbollah.
The distinction highlights the complexity of the regional situation, where multiple conflicts remain interconnected yet are being addressed separately. While Washington’s initiative seeks to de-escalate tensions with Iran, Israel maintains its stance on countering threats along its northern border.
Meanwhile, Iranian authorities have indicated that any sustainable ceasefire arrangement should include a halt to Israeli operations in Lebanon. Tehran has also proposed broader terms for de-escalation, linking progress in U.S.–Iran talks to developments on the Lebanon front.
The evolving situation raises uncertainty over the durability of the temporary pause, as continued hostilities in Lebanon could impact wider efforts to stabilize the region.
