Netanyahu Declares Israel Will Not Withdraw from Lebanon Despite U.S. Deal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Thursday that Israel will not withdraw from its security zone in southern Lebanon despite provisions in the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding calling for an end to military operations on all fronts.

A senior U.S. official confirmed the agreement mandates “the immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon,” while requiring both parties to refrain from future military action and respect Lebanon’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Hezbollah has interpreted this provision as requiring Israel to withdraw from Lebanese territory, warning that continued Israeli presence would constitute a violation of the agreement. Similarly, Iran’s foreign minister has asserted that any Israeli forces remaining in Lebanon breach the terms of the deal.

Hezbollah has also indicated that Iran will not finalize an agreement with Washington unless Israel leaves Lebanon, and Tehran has pledged to push for such a withdrawal during ongoing negotiations.

Netanyahu’s comments could create friction as the Trump administration seeks to implement the memorandum and launch a 60-day negotiating process aimed at addressing Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief, and regional security concerns.

At a road inauguration event Thursday, Netanyahu rejected this interpretation, stating: “Just as we restored security and prosperity to the Gaza envelope, so we will restore security and prosperity to the northern communities.” He emphasized that maintaining the security zone in southern Lebanon is essential for Israel’s security needs.

Netanyahu added: “The struggle is not yet over, and additional challenges lie ahead. These require of us composure, a resolute stand on our security interests, and at the same time, maintaining the important connection with our American friends who fought shoulder to shoulder alongside us, and we appreciate this very much.”