Israel has said that the possibility of long-term peace with Lebanon remains achievable but insisted that Iran’s regional influence continues to be the main obstacle to any lasting settlement. The remarks were made by Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel in an interview, coming just ahead of a 10-day ceasefire agreement announced between Israel and Lebanon.
Haskel said that Israel’s position is focused on regional stability and that peace could be possible if what she described as Iranian-backed militant influence is reduced. She framed the ongoing conflict as part of a wider regional confrontation involving Iran, accusing Tehran of destabilising the Middle East through its support for armed groups operating along Israel’s northern border.
Responding to allegations that Israel is attempting to create a buffer zone inside Lebanese territory, Haskel rejected the claims, calling them “propaganda” driven by Hezbollah and Iran. She argued that Israel’s military actions are defensive in nature and aimed at protecting civilians, citing past withdrawals from occupied territories as evidence that Israel does not pursue territorial expansion.
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Haskel also accused Hezbollah of continuing rocket attacks despite the Lebanese government’s opposition and said Iran exerts significant influence over militant groups in the region. She suggested that weakening Iran’s role could open the door to meaningful diplomatic progress, adding that discussions around de-escalation are taking place for the first time in years.
On broader negotiations involving Iran, Haskel said that discussions between Washington and Tehran remain deeply divided, with significant gaps still unresolved. She also linked Iran’s nuclear programme to rising regional tensions, reiterating Israel’s concerns that Tehran may be attempting to advance its nuclear capabilities underground.
The interview also touched on wider diplomatic issues, including tensions involving Pakistan, which Haskel criticised over alleged links to extremist groups, while also highlighting strengthening India–Israel relations. She avoided commenting in detail on potential future roles for third countries in regional peacekeeping efforts, saying such discussions are handled through diplomatic channels.
Despite the announcement of a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, Haskel’s remarks underscored that a broader and lasting peace agreement remains uncertain. While diplomatic efforts appear to be underway, Israel continues to insist that any long-term resolution must address what it sees as Iran’s influence in the region, leaving the endgame of the conflict still unresolved.
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