Netanyahu 'panicked' as US, Iran build Lebanon ceasefire framework without Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly in a state of near panic over a new security framework for Lebanon being discussed by the United States and Iran, according to Israeli and US media reports. The emerging agreement, which notably excludes Israel, aims to establish a new mechanism for managing conflict in the region.

The core of the discussion involves a US-Iran understanding that would halt all hostilities in Lebanon and respect its territorial integrity. This understanding is to be underpinned by a "deconfliction cell" involving the US, Iran, Lebanon, Qatar, and Pakistan. This new body would replace a previous mechanism that included Israel, France, and the UN, and is seen by some as potentially restricting Israel's military actions against Hezbollah.

Netanyahu's primary concern is that this new framework could limit Israel's ability to conduct military operations against Hezbollah, while simultaneously expanding Iran's influence within Lebanon. This is particularly sensitive given the upcoming general elections in October, where the response to Hezbollah is a critical domestic political issue.

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Bibi is almost in a panic over this issue.

Reports suggest that Netanyahu views the Lebanon-related aspects of the US-Iran agreement as far more serious than its nuclear provisions. A source told Axios that Netanyahu is "almost in a panic" over the situation.

However, a senior US official denied that Israel is being excluded from the new system, stating that US involvement ensures Israel is not left out. The official also suggested that a direct US-Iran channel on Lebanon could ultimately benefit Israel. The US has reportedly briefed Israeli officials, including former minister Ron Dermer, on the negotiations. Despite these assurances, Israeli officials, including Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, have issued a joint statement asserting Israel's determination to act decisively against threats and maintain a security zone in southern Lebanon.

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Israel's defense forces (IDF) will act decisively to eliminate threats to our forces and citizens, destroy terror infrastructure, and maintain a security zone in southern Lebanon.