Netanyahu Says Israel-Lebanon Framework Is a Major Gain for Israel

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commented on the framework agreement signed between Israel and Lebanon in Washington, saying that long negotiations “bore fruit” on the day the deal was reached.

He said the most important point was that Israel would remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon. “This is a great achievement,” he said, adding that Israel would maintain that position as long as Hezbollah is not disarmed and as long as there is still a threat to Israel.

Netanyahu also said the agreement was “a big blow to Iran,” and that “Israel, Lebanon and the United States” were telling Tehran, “this is none of your business.” He said Israel would continue to keep the original security area outside anti-tank missile range.

He added that another element of the deal is allowing the Lebanese army to begin organizing to take over territory. Israel is carrying out two pilot zones, both on the recommendation of the IDF.