Israel backs US–Iran ceasefire but rejects inclusion of Lebanon

Israel has expressed support for a temporary ceasefire arrangement between the United States and Iran, while making clear that the agreement does not extend to neighbouring Lebanon, underscoring continuing divisions over the scope of the truce.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the office of Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that Israel backs the decision by Donald Trump to pause planned military action against Iran for a limited period. The support, however, is conditional on Tehran taking immediate steps to ensure maritime security and halting hostile activities across the տարածաշրջ.

The ceasefire, agreed between Washington and Tehran late Tuesday, is set to last for two weeks. It was finalised shortly before a deadline set by the US administration for potential escalation. Iranian officials indicated the pause would be used to facilitate diplomatic engagement, with talks expected to begin in Pakistan within days.

As part of the arrangement, Tehran has signalled its intention to guarantee safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor. The move is seen as an attempt to stabilise regional shipping routes and ease concerns in international energy markets.

Israel’s statement reiterated its broader objective of ensuring that Iran no longer poses what it described as a nuclear, missile, or security threat. At the same time, it firmly rejected suggestions that the ceasefire applies beyond the immediate US–Iran context.

This position directly contradicts remarks made by Shehbaz Sharif, who has been involved in mediation efforts. Sharif had earlier suggested that the agreement would encompass all fronts, including Lebanon, raising expectations of a wider de-escalation.

The disagreement highlights ongoing uncertainty surrounding the ceasefire’s exact parameters, particularly as hostilities involving Lebanon continue. The country became further entangled in the conflict following attacks by the Iran-backed group Hezbollah, which triggered an Israeli military response.

Israeli operations in Lebanon have since intensified, with authorities reporting significant casualties and widespread damage. The situation remains fluid, with no indication that current military activity along Israel’s northern border will be affected by the US–Iran arrangement.

The developments come against the backdrop of long-standing hostility between Israel and Iran, with tensions escalating sharply in recent months. While the ceasefire may offer a narrow window for diplomacy, differing interpretations among key actors suggest that broader regional stability remains uncertain.

Further clarity is expected as negotiations begin and international stakeholders assess whether the temporary pause can evolve into a more durable framework for de-escalation.