Israel backs US-Iran temporary ceasefire but says it doesn’t include Lebanon

Israel has backed Donald Trump’s decision to suspend planned military strikes against Iran, while insisting that the last-minute ceasefire does not extend to Lebanon.

The United States and Iran reached a two-week ceasefire agreement shortly before Trump’s deadline for military action expired. As part of the arrangement, Tehran said it would guarantee safe passage for maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, with the pause intended to allow negotiations aimed at ending the conflict. Talks are expected to begin in Pakistan.

In a statement, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel supports the US decision, provided Iran immediately reopens the strait and halts attacks against the US, Israel, and other countries in the region.

Israel also reiterated its support for efforts to ensure Iran no longer poses what it described as a nuclear, missile, and security threat. However, Israel clarified that the ceasefire agreement does not apply to Lebanon, contradicting earlier remarks by Shehbaz Sharif, who had indicated that the truce would cover all areas, including Lebanon.

The situation in Lebanon escalated after Hezbollah launched rocket attacks on Israel, prompting Israeli military operations and airstrikes. Authorities say more than 1,500 people have been killed in the violence.

Israel had previously encouraged Trump to take a more direct role in the conflict with Iran, which it considers a key adversary.