Israel’s leadership has thrown its weight behind a US-proposed two-week halt in strikes against Iran, but with a firm caveat—Lebanon remains off-limits from the deal. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement arrives as Tehran shows signs of reciprocating the pause.
From Tel Aviv, Netanyahu’s office detailed Israel’s conditional support for President Trump’s bold move. The truce hinges on Iran unlocking the Strait of Hormuz and ending aggression toward America, Israel, and Gulf neighbors. Failure to comply would likely end the standoff swiftly.
Further, Israel welcomes Washington’s drive to dismantle Iran’s capabilities in nuclear weapons, ballistic missiles, and proxy terrorism. Briefings from US officials to Jerusalem promise aggressive pursuit of these objectives in talks ahead.
Notably absent from the ceasefire’s scope: Israel’s ground and air operations in southern Lebanon. Netanyahu stressed that combating Hezbollah—a key Iranian proxy—continues unabated, signaling no letup in that theater.
Trump’s earlier declaration framed the pause as a strategic gambit to restore shipping through the Hormuz Strait, disrupted amid recent clashes. Iran’s top diplomat hinted at compliance if hostilities stop, opening a narrow window for dialogue.
This bifurcated approach allows Israel to multitask its defense posture: easing direct Iran pressures while dismantling threats from the north. Regional observers note the high stakes, with the truce’s success tied to Iran’s actions and US enforcement.
As negotiators prepare, the world watches whether this ceasefire can build momentum toward lasting stability or merely delays an inevitable clash. Netanyahu’s office reiterated unwavering commitment to Israel’s security above all.
