Israel Seeks Assurances on Lebanon Operations in Iran Deal Talks as Hezbollah Tensions Persist

Israel is asking the US to guarantee its freedom to conduct military operations in Lebanon as part of talks on a proposed peace agreement with Iran, according to a report. The request comes as Iran calls for a complete halt to fighting in Lebanon and clashes between Israel and Hezbollah continue.

Walter Bloomberg reported on May 26 that Israel is seeking US assurances it would retain operational freedom in Lebanon under the proposed agreement with Iran.

Iran has demanded a full stop to fighting in Lebanon. Israel, by contrast, opposes limits on its operations there, citing the threat from Hezbollah.

Clashes between Israel and Hezbollah have persisted despite a ceasefire. Israel reportedly struck more than 100 Hezbollah targets overnight. Drone attacks against Israeli forces have also intensified.

Pressure is building inside Israel on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to take a harder line against Hezbollah. Israeli officials are also said to oppose any US effort to restrict strikes deep inside Lebanon.

Markets are viewing the Iran talks as increasingly uncertain as the discussions broaden beyond nuclear and sanctions issues to include Lebanon and Hezbollah. Renewed escalation on the Lebanese front could undermine hopes for easing tensions in the Middle East and weigh on international oil prices and risk sentiment.