Israel says its troops will remain in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza indefinitely, despite a peace agreement between the United States and Iran. This was reported by Israel’s Minister of Defense on June 15, just hours after Washington and Tehran agreed to further negotiations to end the months-long war that has engulfed Lebanon.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel Katz adhere to a clear policy, stating that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will stay in the security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza for an unlimited period. The goal is to protect the borders and Israeli communities from jihadist elements. The statement made by Israel Katz on June 15 did not reference the agreement between the US and Iran.
US-Iran agreement and its consequences
The agreement between the US and Iran, reached on June 14, paved the way for further negotiations to eventually end the months-long war that has claimed thousands of lives and shaken the global economy. US President Donald Trump said this agreement will allow the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for the economy.
Donald Trump also sanctioned the “immediate lifting of the US naval blockade from Iranian ports”. Details of the agreement appeared in media reports before the official announcement on June 14, which sparked a wave of criticism and discontent among Israelis across the political spectrum.
Israel’s reaction
Two Israeli ultra-right ministers condemned the agreement on June 15, insisting that their country is not bound by it. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir stated on his Telegram channel that “Trump’s agreement does not obligate us”, adding: “We are not a party to this agreement. It does not guarantee our security”.
These statements by Itamar Ben-Gvir were the first reaction from an Israeli official to the agreement.
Source: The Straits Times