At the same time as the finalization of a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran, senior Israeli officials have emphasized the continuation of the country’s military presence in certain areas of the region. The Israeli Defense Minister stated that Israeli forces will continue operating in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza.
Israel Katz, the Israeli Defense Minister, said that this position has been clearly communicated by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to U.S. President Donald Trump and other senior American officials.
Katz also stated that in the event of any attack by Iran against Israel, a reciprocal response would follow. He stressed that Israel’s security policies are being pursued independently of ongoing developments.
Meanwhile, Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s Minister of National Security, announced that his country is not a party to the understanding between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran. He added that Israel should accept nothing less than the dismantlement of Hezbollah.
The statements by Israeli officials come at a time when the cessation of attacks on Hezbollah positions in Lebanon has been cited among the issues the Islamic Republic of Iran has emphasized within the framework of its understanding with the United States.
At the same time, reports indicate that Israel targeted areas in Beirut, the Lebanese capital, yesterday, and today also struck the village of Tebnine in the Upper Nabatieh region in southern Lebanon.
These developments are taking place amid the finalization of the understanding between Tehran and Washington, which has received mixed reactions across the region and internationally and continues to draw the attention of political and security observers.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
