Israel has issued its first reaction to a reported interim agreement between the United States and Iran, signalling potential complications for the diplomatic framework announced earlier on Sunday. The development comes amid ongoing tensions linked to the wider conflict involving Lebanon, Gaza, and Syria, where military operations have continued alongside fragile ceasefire discussions. Israeli officials indicated that the agreement could face immediate challenges due to disagreements over territorial and security arrangements.

Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that Israel would not withdraw from territories it currently controls in Lebanon, even as an interim deal remains under discussion. He said Israel intends to maintain a long-term military presence in strategic areas, asserting that such positions are necessary for national security. His comments suggested that Israel views its current deployments as essential buffers against threats from armed groups operating across its borders.

Katz further indicated that Israel would maintain what he described as “security zones” not only in Lebanon, but also in parts of Syria and the Gaza Strip. Lebanon, Syria, and the Gaza Strip remain central to ongoing military and political disputes, with Israeli officials arguing that continued presence is required to prevent attacks from militant groups.

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The interim understanding between Washington and Tehran reportedly includes conditions tied to reducing hostilities involving Iran and its regional allies, including Hezbollah. Iranian officials have linked progress in the deal to a halt in Israeli strikes against Hezbollah positions in Lebanon. However, Israel has continued military operations, particularly around Beirut’s outskirts, raising concerns that the agreement could be destabilised before implementation.

Tensions have also drawn attention from Washington, where Donald Trump reportedly commented on the difficulties of reaching a lasting settlement involving Israel. He described Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a “difficult” negotiating partner and suggested that Israel should acknowledge U.S. diplomatic efforts in curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions. These remarks highlight friction even among allies involved in the negotiations.

Over the past two and a half years, Israel has expanded its control over areas across Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, covering an estimated 1,000 square kilometres, according to reported figures. The situation remains deeply sensitive, with overlapping conflicts involving state and non-state actors shaping the regional landscape. Analysts say the emerging US-Iran understanding could be tested quickly if Israel maintains its current military posture.

As diplomatic efforts continue, the lack of Israeli endorsement of the interim arrangement raises questions about the viability of any broader ceasefire framework. With multiple actors pursuing conflicting security objectives, the situation remains fluid, and further escalation cannot be ruled out as negotiations evolve.

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