Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Tuesday that a tentative deal to end the war with the United States requires Israel to withdraw from Lebanon. This condition has already been rejected by Israel, which could jeopardize the agreement and potentially lead to a resumption of conflict. The details of the deal between the U.S. and Iran have not been made public, and there are conflicting interpretations regarding its contents. Although Israel is not a party to the agreement, it has been involved in military actions against Iran since February 28, including strikes on Iranian targets and engagements with Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Araghchi emphasized that without Israel's withdrawal from the territories it occupies in Lebanon, the war cannot be considered fully resolved. A U.S. official, speaking anonymously, indicated that the deal does not include a requirement for Israeli withdrawal, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that Israel will remain in Lebanon as long as necessary.
The ongoing negotiations have faced challenges, leading to a fragile ceasefire that has not transitioned into a lasting peace. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global energy supplies, remains effectively closed due to the conflict. Switzerland's foreign ministry announced that a signing ceremony for the deal is scheduled for Friday at the Bürgenstock resort in Luzern, with mediation from Pakistan and Qatar.
The agreement is expected to call for an end to military operations, including in Lebanon, but Araghchi's insistence on Israeli withdrawal complicates the situation. Israel has expanded its military presence in Lebanon in response to Hezbollah's actions, which continue to pose a threat. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Israel's handling of the situation, noting the high civilian casualties resulting from Israeli strikes in Lebanon.
As of Tuesday evening, Netanyahu had not reviewed the memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Iran. Trump indicated he would consider sending the agreement to Congress for review, amid concerns from some Republicans regarding its effectiveness in preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, Israel and the Lebanese government have engaged in their own negotiations, which have not included Hezbollah and have resulted in unimplemented ceasefires. Araghchi's comments align with the understanding of regional officials who suggest that the deal requires Israel to withdraw from most of its occupied territories in Lebanon, except for certain border areas.