Israel Weighs Options as US-Iran Talks Advance

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has convened a limited session of Israel’s security cabinet to evaluate a potential breakthrough in U.S.-Iran negotiations. The gathering, scheduled for Sunday, comes amid reports that Washington and Tehran are nearing an agreement that could halt multiple regional conflicts, including those involving Hezbollah in Lebanon. The draft deal reportedly envisions a broad cessation of hostilities, a development that could force Israel to reconsider its ongoing operations against Hezbollah positions. Netanyahu has repeatedly demanded the group’s full disarmament, and any perceived softening of this stance in the agreement is expected to face strong resistance from his security team. Even after a U.S.-mediated truce took effect last month, Israeli jets have maintained a steady tempo of strikes in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah has countered with periodic rocket and drone assaults on Israeli territory, contributing to a death toll exceeding 3,100 since early March. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer have publicly endorsed the emerging U.S.-Iran framework, highlighting its potential to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restore freedom of navigation without preconditions. Inside Israel, officials are preparing for a detailed review of the draft text. The cabinet is expected to assess whether the proposed deal aligns with Israel’s long-term security objectives or requires additional safeguards before any formal endorsement.