Netanyahu seeks to maintain 'vital' US ties amid Iran deal; Israel to stay in Lebanon 'as long as needed'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized on Thursday the critical importance of preserving Israel's "vital relationship" with the United States, particularly in light of a new agreement between Washington and Tehran. "The fight is not over, and other challenges await us. These require discernment, the firm defense of Israel's security interests, and, at the same time, maintaining our vital relationship with our American friends, a partnership we deeply value," Netanyahu stated in a release from his office.

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The fight is not over, and other challenges await us. These require discernment, the firm defense of Israel's security interests, and, at the same time, maintaining our vital relationship with our American friends, a partnership we deeply value.

This declaration comes amid political tensions within Israel, where segments of the governing coalition had sharply criticized the US-Iran pact even before its official publication. Netanyahu also reiterated that the Israeli army will remain in southern Lebanon to uphold a "security zone" aimed at protecting northern Israeli communities. He specified that this military presence would continue "as long as security needs demand it."

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as long as security needs demand it.

While Netanyahu did not directly comment on the US-Iran agreement, negative reactions from within his government drew attention from Washington. US Vice President JD Vance responded to criticisms from some Israeli government members, urging Jerusalem officials to "open their eyes" and acknowledge the substantial military aid provided by the United States. "In the last three months, two-thirds of the defensive weapons that protected Israel were manufactured in America and paid for by American taxpayers," Vance stated at a press conference in Washington.

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In the last three months, two-thirds of the defensive weapons that protected Israel were manufactured in America and paid for by American taxpayers.

The memorandum, signed by former President Donald Trump and Iranian leaders, reportedly includes provisions for an immediate and permanent cessation of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon. However, critics in Israel argue that the pact offers concessions to Iran without addressing the Jewish state's security concerns. Prior to the agreement's announcement, Trump had criticized Netanyahu over attacks on southern Beirut suburbs, warning they could jeopardize negotiations. Trump described the Israeli prime minister as "a very difficult guy" and suggested Israel should be "very grateful" for American support, stating that without US intervention, "if Iran had a nuclear weapon, Israel would not last two hours." Nevertheless, before the agreement's signing, Trump praised the "extraordinary partnership" with Netanyahu, downplaying differences regarding Lebanon as a "minor dispute."

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It is a very difficult guy.