Israel has rejected key provisions of a recently announced U.S.-Iran diplomatic framework, declaring that its military will not withdraw from positions held in southern Lebanon despite reports that the agreement calls for a broader de-escalation of regional hostilities.

Israeli officials stated that the country’s security strategy will remain unchanged and that military forces will continue operating in areas considered essential to national defense. The position places Israel at odds with elements of the emerging understanding between Washington and Tehran, which seeks to reduce tensions across several conflict zones in the Middle East.

Defense Minister Israel Katz said Israeli troops would remain in designated security zones in Lebanon, as well as in other strategic areas, arguing that the deployments are necessary to protect Israeli communities from potential threats. According to Israeli officials, the government has informed U.S. leaders that it does not consider itself bound by any arrangement that could limit its ability to respond to security challenges posed by armed groups operating near its borders.

The disagreement emerged shortly after reports of a tentative U.S.-Iran agreement intended to halt military escalation and establish conditions for a wider regional ceasefire. While details of the framework have not been fully released, mediators involved in the negotiations indicated that Lebanon was among the areas expected to benefit from a reduction in hostilities.

Israeli leaders, however, have expressed strong reservations about provisions related to Lebanon. Officials argue that any withdrawal could weaken Israel’s security posture and provide an opportunity for hostile organizations to regroup. Several political figures across Israel’s political spectrum have also voiced concerns that the agreement could undermine military gains achieved during recent operations.

Meanwhile, conditions in southern Lebanon remain fragile despite reports of reduced fighting. Lebanese authorities have urged displaced residents to exercise caution before returning to affected areas, citing ongoing security concerns and the continued presence of military forces. Hezbollah representatives have also indicated that their position on any ceasefire arrangement will depend on Israel’s actions on the ground.

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