On June 18, Israel is conducting negotiations with the US to maintain the deployment of troops in southern Lebanon, according to information from two Israeli officials, including a senior official close to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The information was released one day after the US and Iran signed a temporary agreement, in which the parties pledged to ensure "territorial integrity and sovereignty of Lebanon".
According to Israeli officials, the discussions are taking place in the context of Tel Aviv wanting to continue maintaining forces in southern Lebanon. A senior official said that Israel is conducting "resolute" negotiations with Washington on this issue.
The official affirmed that Israel will not change its position, including maintaining troops in the southern Litani River region of Lebanon.
Another Israeli official said that the final outcome of the negotiations will depend on whether US President Donald Trump decides to put pressure or not. According to this official's assessment, Washington may threaten to take retaliatory measures if Israel does not comply with the terms of the temporary agreement with Iran.
The conflict in southern Lebanon escalated after Hezbollah forces opened fire on Israel to show support for its ally Iran. After that, Israel expanded its military campaign in this area with air and ground operations, with the declared goal of eliminating Hezbollah.
Israel describes the control areas in Lebanon, the Gaza Strip and Syria as "buffers" between the country and its rivals. Maintaining such areas is considered an important part of Israel's current security strategy.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously rejected calls for Israel to withdraw troops from areas it controls.
