Source Reuter
Israel has formally outlined an expanded zone of military control in southern Lebanon, a move that is raising serious concerns over the stability of a recently announced U.S.–Iran agreement aimed at ending regional hostilities.
According to officials and newly released maps, Israeli forces are now operating beyond previously declared buffer zones, extending their presence deeper into Lebanese territory. The expansion includes areas near key strongholds of Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group that has been at the center of cross-border clashes with Israel.
The development comes just days after Washington and Tehran signed a preliminary memorandum of understanding (MoU) designed to halt fighting across multiple fronts, including Lebanon. The agreement emphasizes respect for sovereignty and calls for a cessation of military operations, with Lebanon specifically highlighted as a region requiring de-escalation.
However, Israel has signaled that it does not consider itself bound by the terms of the U.S.–Iran pact, as it was not a direct party to the negotiations. Israeli leadership has justified the continued and expanded troop deployment by citing persistent security threats from Hezbollah, which it accuses of ongoing attacks and military buildup near its northern border.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated that Israeli forces will remain in what he describes as “security zones” for as long as necessary to protect the country. Israeli officials have also indicated that any potential withdrawal would depend on the disarmament of Hezbollah—an outcome that appears unlikely in the near term.
The move has created friction with the United States, which has been pushing for broader regional de-escalation following months of conflict involving Iran and its allies. While U.S. officials have criticized aspects of Israel’s military strategy, Washington has stopped short of imposing restrictions or altering its support.
Lebanon, meanwhile, has strongly objected to the expanded Israeli presence, insisting on a full and immediate withdrawal in line with international law and the principles outlined in the U.S.–Iran agreement. Lebanese authorities argue that continued occupation undermines sovereignty and risks reigniting wider conflict.
Analysts say Israel’s decision to publicize the enlarged operational zone is a strategic signal that it intends to maintain control unless its security concerns are fully addressed. The situation adds uncertainty to upcoming U.S.-mediated talks between Israel and Lebanon, scheduled to take place in Washington in the coming days.
With tensions still high and interpretations of the U.S.–Iran deal differing among key players, the future of the ceasefire framework remains uncertain. Observers warn that without clear alignment between regional powers, the risk of renewed escalation in Lebanon and beyond remains significant.
