Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Tuesday that the country's security cabinet had approved a ceasefire agreement in Lebanon, marking an important step in reducing hostilities in the region. In an evening statement, Netanyahu stressed that the ceasefire would allow Israel to focus on the ongoing threat posed by Iran.
“We are changing the face of the Middle East,” declared the Israeli Prime Minister. He reaffirmed that the ceasefire would allow Israel to focus its efforts on countering Iranian influence and its nuclear ambitions. He clarified, however, that Israel would retain the right to take military measures if Hezbollah violated the terms of the agreement. Benjamin Netanyahu thus threatened to strike the pro-Iranian group again if it tried to develop its arsenal again. “Hezbollah is no longer the same today. We took it back years. We killed his command and destroyed his infrastructure,” he added.
The Israeli Prime Minister also put forward another essential reason for the ceasefire: the need to separate the Lebanese and Gaza fronts, which Hezbollah had linked by opening the southern front, and to completely eliminate Hamas from the equation. The move is seen as part of Israel's broader strategy to consolidate its security while confronting multiple threats in the region.
In his general remarks, Mr. Netanyahu touched on the ongoing conflict on different fronts. “We have achieved significant successes on the seven fronts where we are fighting,” he said, referring to Israel's military efforts in Lebanon, Gaza and other areas. He highlighted Israel's commitment to ensuring the safe return of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, as well as ensuring the safety of citizens in northern Israel.
Netanyahu also reaffirmed Israel's position on Iran, pledging to do whatever is necessary to prevent the country from acquiring nuclear weapons. “I am determined to do whatever is necessary to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons,” he said, emphasizing the importance of this goal for regional stability.
Finally, the Israeli leader issued a warning to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, asking him not to provoke a new escalation. “Assad must understand that he is playing with fire,” warned Mr. Netanyahu, referring to the ongoing tensions and military activities in Syria, especially as Hezbollah weapons are transported from Iran via Syria.
