JERUSALEM — Israeli forces are maintaining positions in southern Lebanon despite a U.S.-Iran peace framework that includes provisions for ending military operations in the country, officials said on Monday.
The U.S.-Iran agreement, announced by President Donald Trump, calls for a ceasefire and de-escalation across fronts, including Lebanon. However, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that troops would continue operations and remain in key areas to dismantle infrastructure threats.
Katz said Israeli forces would stay in a security zone in southern Lebanon, including areas such as Beaufort Castle, "without the return of the population" for the time being. He added that Israel retains freedom of action, with U.S. backing, to respond to attacks.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized that Israel will not withdraw while security threats from Hezbollah persist. "We are there, and we are not leaving," he said in recent comments.
The U.S.-Iran deal aims to end hostilities that escalated earlier in 2026, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and address Iran's nuclear program in further talks. It includes references to broader regional peace, encompassing Lebanon, according to U.S. officials.
Israeli officials have expressed reservations about the agreement, arguing it does not sufficiently address threats from Iranian-backed groups. Operations in Lebanon have continued, with recent strikes reported in response to Hezbollah activity.
Lebanese and Hezbollah officials have criticized the ongoing Israeli presence, calling for full withdrawal. Hezbollah has rejected aspects of related ceasefire plans and continued limited actions against Israeli forces.
The situation follows earlier U.S.-brokered efforts, including a cessation of hostilities between Israel and Lebanon in April 2026, which has faced repeated strains.
Tensions between the Netanyahu government and the Trump administration have surfaced over the pace of de-escalation and Israel's actions in Lebanon. Trump has publicly described Netanyahu as "a very difficult guy" in recent interviews.
As of Monday, Israeli forces remained deployed in parts of southern Lebanon. Further negotiations on withdrawal and security arrangements are scheduled, including talks in Washington later this month, officials said. Details on the timeline for any potential drawdown remain unclear.
