On June 15, 2026, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed Israelis, expressing reluctance to adhere to a cease-fire between the United States and Iran. He stated, “The struggle has not ended,” highlighting potential issues for the peace deal.
Netanyahu signaled no intention to pull Israeli forces from Lebanon, a major demand from Iran during U.S. negotiations. Israeli soldiers are engaged in combat with Hezbollah, a militant group aligned with Iran.
Following the onset of the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran in March, Hezbollah launched attacks on Israel to support Iran. In response, Israeli troops seized what Netanyahu termed a “security zone” in southern Lebanon. They conducted attacks on supposed Hezbollah sites, including bombings in Beirut, triggering Iranian retaliation against Israel.
The clashes between Israel and Hezbollah have led to the deaths of over 3,700 Lebanese and at least 30 Israelis, according to officials from both nations.
In talks mediated by the United States, Iran pressed for an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon. However, Israel was not directly involved in these negotiations. Israel and Lebanon held separate discussions in Washington about a peace agreement, contingent on Hezbollah refraining from attacks on Israel. Despite these efforts, Hezbollah has refused direct negotiations as it operates independently of the Lebanese government.