Trump faces fresh bipartisan criticism on Iran deal as Vance hails peace talks

Iran's delegation walked out of talks with the United States in Switzerland on Sunday. These negotiations aimed to permanently end a Middle East war and initiate a 60-day period to resolve long-standing US-Iranian issues. The walkout occurred after US President Donald Trump threatened to strike Iran due to its support for Hezbollah. Disagreements over key issues and the potential for renewed fighting in Lebanon also impacted the discussions, with both nations exchanging threats alongside the negotiations.

An interim agreement between the US and Iran, signed on Wednesday, calls for an immediate and permanent end to military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon. However, Israeli attacks on Lebanon have continued, leading Iran to postpone planned talks with the US. Analysts suggest Israel may be attempting to undermine the agreement by escalating conflict in Lebanon, which Iran considers essential to the deal's success. While the US has expressed dissatisfaction with Israel's operations, Israel maintains its need to continue. The situation in Lebanon could either solidify or derail the broader Iran-US negotiations, depending on whether Israel ceases its military actions and the US can exert pressure.

Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, citing waves of Israeli strikes in Lebanon as the reason. This development coincides with the arrival of delegations in Switzerland for talks with the United States. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Tehran is willing to provide written assurances that it does not intend to build a nuclear weapon, while also insisting on its right to enrich uranium. The President's website quoted him as saying that the US demand for Iran not to build an atomic bomb is not new.

US Vice President JD Vance is traveling to Switzerland for high-level talks with Iran, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar. Iran's delegation has arrived in Switzerland, stating their primary objective is to ensure full implementation of an interim deal to end the war. These discussions are occurring as Iran announces the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The article also reports that Israel killed 16 people in Lebanon on Saturday. The talks are described as high-security, with the date of publication being June 21, 2026.

Bipartisan criticism has emerged regarding a provisional deal between the US and Iran, even as President Trump issued new threats against Tehran. Republicans like Senator John Cornyn and Democrats such as Susan Rice and Senator Cory Booker have voiced strong objections, calling the agreement a "surrender" and "flimsy" due to concessions granted upfront, including Iran's ability to sell oil unimpeded. This criticism comes as Trump threatened renewed attacks if Iran doesn't curb its proxy in Lebanon. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance hailed progress in direct peace talks in Switzerland, stating negotiators had already made significant headway. The US energy secretary noted that US military actions have altered Iran's leverage in negotiations.

US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are reportedly heading to Switzerland for postponed negotiations with Iran aimed at cementing a peace deal. These talks, intended to get technical discussions back on track, are facing pressure from recent Israeli strikes in Lebanon. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is also expected in Switzerland, with Iran viewing a ceasefire in Lebanon as crucial for the diplomatic process. The article states that at least five people were killed in Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon shortly after a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect. No new date for the US-Iran negotiations has been announced.

US envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi are scheduled to meet in Switzerland for talks. These discussions come as a ceasefire in Lebanon, agreed upon by Israel and Hezbollah, appears to have revived efforts to transition an interim Iran war pact into a lasting regional deal. The ceasefire followed a 14-point memorandum signed this week by Israel and Hezbollah to halt fighting and create a 60-day period for resolving disputes. These disputes include Iran's nuclear program and other issues crucial for a more durable agreement, which is also seen as critical for reopening the Strait of Hormuz and stabilizing oil supplies.

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has described conditions in Nabatieh, southern Lebanon, as a "death trap" due to intensified Israeli attacks since Friday midnight. These escalated strikes, which have killed at least 50 people including a soldier, are occurring ahead of planned US-Iran talks. MSF is treating an influx of severely injured victims, but rescue efforts are hampered by the risk of coming under fire, preventing access to many trapped civilians. The Israeli military stated these strikes followed a Hezbollah attack that killed four soldiers, despite a reported ceasefire agreement. MSF is calling for the protection of civilians and first responders, and unimpeded access for rescue teams.

Despite a newly announced ceasefire, Israel and Hezbollah have resumed hostilities in southern Lebanon. Israeli airstrikes and artillery targeted over a dozen areas, reportedly killing at least 11 people, with the Lebanese state news agency identifying Nabatieh as a heavily affected city. The Israeli military stated it struck "Hezbollah terrorist targets" in response to over 50 projectiles fired by the group at Israeli forces. Washington has criticized Israel's actions, fearing they could jeopardize a US peace deal with Iran that aims to end fighting on all fronts, including Lebanon. A senior Hezbollah official asserted the group's right to retaliate against Israeli attacks.

Analysts argue that Israel's ongoing military operations in Lebanon are the primary obstacle to the US-Iran ceasefire deal. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the US and Iran calls for a permanent cessation of hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon, but Israel has continued its attacks and invasion. Iran has stated it will not finalize a ceasefire agreement while Lebanon is under fire, leading to the postponement of technical talks. Analysts like Trita Parsi and Ryan Costello emphasize that Lebanon is crucial for Iran and poses the "greatest vulnerability" and "greatest test" for the deal. Despite US President Trump's calls for a complete ceasefire, Israel has maintained its actions, leading to concerns about a potential breakdown in negotiations and a return to fighting.

US-Iran talks in Switzerland have been postponed after a US official, Vance, canceled his trip. The negotiations were intended to focus on implementing a recently agreed-upon deal and discussing Iran's nuclear program. The deal reportedly includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a reconstruction plan for Iran, and the termination of US sanctions. Iran's Supreme Leader approved the deal, though he expressed reservations about US tactics. The postponement is linked to ongoing clashes in Lebanon, with Hezbollah-linked media reporting the suspension due to Israeli air strikes. While Iran insists on Lebanon's inclusion in any ceasefire, Israel rejects this, viewing its conflict with Hezbollah as separate. President Trump stated he expects a ceasefire on all fronts.

Following two wars, US-Iran diplomacy regarding Iran's nuclear program has returned to its previous state. On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed a memorandum of understanding to initiate talks. These discussions are expected to largely re-establish the diplomatic track that the US broke off in February. This previous track was built upon negotiations mediated by Oman, as part of a broader Gulf diplomatic initiative involving Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. During those earlier talks, both the US and Iran had been discussing the potential framework for Iran's nuclear program.

Former President Barack Obama stated in an interview that the U.S. is "worse off" after a 15-week war with Iran, despite a recent ceasefire agreement signed by Donald Trump. Obama expressed happiness about the ceasefire and hopes it will hold, while also criticizing Trump's decision to withdraw from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA), which he believes led to Iran developing more nuclear capacity. Iran's chief negotiator indicated that future talks must respect Tehran's "red lines." The article also notes differing views on the economic impact of the agreement, with some expecting falling gas prices and others predicting a rise in oil prices.

On Friday, 18 people were killed in Israeli air strikes in southern Lebanon, according to Lebanese authorities. The Lebanese health ministry reported that the strikes, which occurred overnight and into the morning, also wounded 33 people and prevented the evacuation of casualties in at least 10 villages and towns. Israel's military stated that its soldiers were killed in Lebanon for the first time since a US-Iran deal aimed at halting the Middle East war. Israel claimed it was targeting Hezbollah, while the Iran-backed militant group asserted it was attacking Israeli forces near the southern town of Nabatieh.

Israel's military is striking Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, claiming repeated ceasefire violations by the Iran-backed group. Meanwhile, US-Iran talks scheduled for Friday in Switzerland have been abruptly canceled, with reports indicating a memorandum of understanding has already been signed remotely. Senator JD Vance stated that Donald Trump is Israel's sole ally in the world, emphasizing US expectations for a complete ceasefire on all fronts. Iran's Supreme Leader approved the deal with the US, despite reservations, citing assurances from the Iranian president. Iran plans to introduce maritime fees in the Strait of Hormuz, asserting control over the waterway, while the US has ended its blockade there.

A 2015 law, the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act (INARA), is central to a debate over whether President Trump must submit a recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Iran to Congress. The law requires congressional review and a potential vote of disapproval for any agreements related to Iran's nuclear program. Lawmakers and pro-Israel groups are citing INARA, arguing the MoU, which lifts sanctions and halts fighting, falls under its purview. While Trump has expressed openness to congressional review, his administration has not officially stated whether the MoU is subject to the law. Legal experts suggest INARA applies to the MoU and any future nuclear deal, though some argue the law hinders diplomacy.

A handful of Senate Republicans have criticized an interim deal reached by the Trump administration with Iran to end a 110-day conflict. Senator Bill Cassidy called the agreement "the worst foreign policy blunder in decades," arguing it fails to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions and makes concessions while 13 Americans are dead. The deal, which aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and prevent a global depression, includes Iran's commitment to destroy its enriched uranium stockpile. While some Republicans, like Lindsey Graham, expressed initial concern but later found the deal potentially beneficial, others, such as Thom Tillis, are worried about a reported $300 billion fund for Iran. The memorandum of understanding gives both sides 60 days to negotiate a comprehensive final agreement.

US President Donald Trump has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Iran, which has drawn criticism from some Republican lawmakers. The 14-point agreement, signed on Wednesday, commits both nations to an immediate and permanent end to military operations on all fronts and includes Iran's pledge to not procure or develop nuclear weapons. In return, the US has pledged to develop a plan to provide $300 billion for Iran's reconstruction and development, and Iran agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Republican Senators Bill Cassidy and Thomas Massie have voiced strong opposition, with Cassidy calling the MoU "the worst foreign policy blunder in decades" and Massie criticizing the financial assistance plan.

Republican leaders and conservative allies are expressing strong reservations and condemnation regarding President Trump's agreement to end the fighting in Iran. The memorandum of understanding initiates a 60-day negotiation period for a final deal on Iran's nuclear program. Key points of criticism include the lifting of economic sanctions on Iran's oil sales and a proposed $300 billion fund for Iran's reconstruction, which some senators view as overly generous. While Trump allies acknowledge the deal is not final and that U.S. taxpayers would not fund the reconstruction, critics like Senator Roger Wicker and Senator Ted Cruz argue against providing significant financial aid to Iran. President Trump has dismissed these criticisms as "fake news" and called his critics "fools."

Recent reports highlight tensions between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, particularly concerning Israel's actions in Lebanon following a US-Iran deal. Trump has publicly expressed displeasure with Israel's bombing of Lebanon and its handling of Hezbollah, urging Netanyahu to be more responsible. Despite these reported rifts, the article notes that such public disputes between US and Israeli leaders have historically not altered US policy or military support for Israel. Past US presidents, including Barack Obama and Dwight D. Eisenhower, have also experienced significant disagreements with Israeli leaders, yet US support for Israel has remained consistent.

A memorandum of understanding has been signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, addressing the consequences of a US-led attack on Iran on February 28th. The conflict resulted in thousands of deaths and a strategic defeat for the US and Israel, while empowering the Iranian regime. Iran's strategy of blocking the Strait of Hormuz forced the US to agree to concessions, including lifting its counter blockade of Iranian ports, waiving sanctions to allow oil exports, and unfreezing Iranian assets abroad. In return, the MOU calls for an end to the war in Lebanon, a condition Israel opposes. The agreement aims to restore the situation to pre-war conditions, allowing for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the resumption of nuclear deal negotiations.

The United States and Iran have electronically signed a memorandum of understanding, brokered by Pakistan, to extend a 60-day ceasefire in their war, which began on February 28. The agreement, effective Wednesday, also includes Iran's reaffirmation to not develop nuclear weapons and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. US officials stated the deal aims to pave the way for further negotiations on Iran's nuclear program, sanctions, and frozen assets. While welcomed by Pakistan, France, and some US Republicans, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasized monitoring US compliance and stated Iran's missile program would not be part of negotiations. The IAEA Director-General welcomed the agreement, noting that technical work on Iran's nuclear program will now commence.

Iran views a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the US as a strategic success, allowing it to claim survival and emergence from conflict stronger. The deal, signed by Presidents Trump and Pezeshkian, establishes a 60-day framework for nuclear program negotiations and mandates an immediate halt to military operations. Key terms include ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, reaffirming Iran's commitment against nuclear weapons, and initiating talks on its enrichment program. In return, the US will begin lifting its naval blockade, issue waivers for oil exports, unfreeze assets, and work towards easing sanctions and a reconstruction plan for Iran. This outcome has led to muted criticism within Iran, as the leadership can present the deal as a victory recognizing its sovereignty and offering economic prospects.

The Trump administration has released a 14-point agreement with Iran, described as a "major win" for the US, aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and preventing a global economic downturn. The deal involves significant concessions to Iran, including the potential return of frozen assets and waivers for oil shipments, in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire and Iran's commitment to not procure nuclear weapons. President Trump stated the agreement averts a "worldwide depression" and indicated the US would not pressure Iran on its ballistic missile program or uranium enrichment for civilian use. The deal, which also includes provisions for Lebanon and the down-blending of enriched uranium, is expected to be formally signed shortly, potentially involving a meeting between President Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

The U.S. and Iran have reached an interim agreement that includes a 60-day period to negotiate Tehran's nuclear program, a key issue between the two nations. The deal, set to be signed in Switzerland, also involves reopening the Strait of Hormuz and financial incentives for Iran if benchmarks are met. However, there is significant skepticism from lawmakers, advocates, and Israel regarding the deal's feasibility and effectiveness in addressing nuclear talks. Critics point to the lengthy negotiation process of the previous nuclear pact and question the current administration's ability to focus on the complex details required for a nuclear agreement. Republicans emphasize that any deal must be approved by Congress.

US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that an agreement had been reached with Iran on Sunday, aiming to end a conflict and prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Speaking at a press conference in France on the sidelines of the G7 summit, Trump described the arrangement as a significant achievement that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He stated that the deal was intended to be permanent, warning that Iran would face bombing if it did not adhere to the agreement. Trump asserted that the deal accomplished "everything we set out to accomplish, everything and much more."

US President Donald Trump indicated that a planned memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Iran, intended to begin ending their war, might not be signed on Friday as scheduled. Speaking at the G7 summit, Trump stated that deals can fall through, but also suggested the signing could happen sooner. The MOU reportedly includes lifting the US naval blockade, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and issuing sanctions waivers for Iran's fossil fuel industry. It also outlines a 60-day negotiation period for more complex issues like Iran's nuclear program and support for regional proxies. Trump also threatened to bomb Iran if they do not "behave." The secrecy surrounding the MOU's text has drawn criticism from both Democrats and Republicans in the US.

US President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that a recently announced framework with Iran is not a finalized agreement but rather a memorandum of understanding still under negotiation. Speaking at the G7 summit in France, Trump warned that if he is dissatisfied with the final terms, the situation could escalate back to active military conflict. He indicated that the US might resume military action if Iran does not "behave." The president made these remarks on the sidelines of the summit while speaking with the media alongside Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that G7 leaders at their summit in France pledged increased support for Ukraine's defense against Russia's ongoing invasion. Key commitments include strengthening Ukraine's air defenses and ensuring its energy supply, alongside escalating international economic pressure on Moscow through new sanctions. Leaders also indicated they would consider granting Ukraine licenses to manufacture Western weapons. This G7 backing is described as exceptionally strong, sending a clear message to Russia. The summit occurred as Ukraine officially began its EU membership negotiations. Separately, Russia claimed a Ukrainian drone attacked a bus with children, an accusation Ukraine denied as a fabrication.

At the G7 summit in France, President Donald Trump expressed satisfaction with the meeting, citing unity among leaders regarding a tentative agreement with Iran to end the war. This marked a shift from his previous criticism of allies for not supporting military action against Iran. G7 leaders welcomed the Iran deal, acknowledging Trump's leadership, and also expressed unwavering support for Ukraine, a stance Trump joined despite his prior skepticism. Discussions also addressed China's economic practices, with leaders agreeing to coordinated actions against economic coercion, though Trump later thanked China and Russia for remaining neutral in the Iran conflict. Trump also indicated he would credit Vice President JD Vance if the Iran deal succeeds but blame him if it fails.

President Trump has backed a G7 statement supporting his proposed peace deal with Iran, despite domestic criticism from some Republicans who want more details. European leaders are seeking to join future talks, which Iran's top diplomat indicated would require Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon. Meanwhile, people in Iran express exhaustion and anger over the lack of change. The deal also highlights diverging US-Israeli strategic interests, leaving Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in a difficult political position. In other news, detainees have been relocated from Florida's "Alligator Alcatraz" immigration jail, and fifteen individuals in Minnesota face charges related to protests against ICE enforcement.

The United States and Iran are set to sign an initial agreement in Geneva on Friday, mediated by Pakistan, to end the US-Israel war on Iran and begin 60-day negotiations. While details are undisclosed, US President Donald Trump emphasized Iran's nuclear program as a key concern. Relations between the two countries deteriorated significantly under Trump, beginning with the US withdrawal from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in May 2018. Following the withdrawal, the US imposed new sanctions on Iran in August and November 2018, targeting various sectors including oil and banking. In April 2019, Trump designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a foreign terrorist organization, leading to retaliatory measures from Tehran.

The White House has issued talking points to supporters and Republican lawmakers claiming significant victories in its dealings with Iran, including Iran agreeing to forgo nuclear weapons and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. However, the details of the initial agreement remain secret, even from many allies, leading to confusion and skepticism. These claims often contradict the realities on the ground, particularly regarding the conflict in Lebanon, where Hezbollah is not a party to the talks and has rejected any agreements. President Trump stated he would release the agreement at a formal setting, possibly with a press conference. The talking points also misrepresent aspects of the Obama-era nuclear deal.

At the G7 summit, US President Donald Trump declared the Strait of Hormuz would be "completely open" from Friday, claiming a deal was signed that would prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. He expressed optimism for positive developments in the Middle East and noted a rise in oil prices and the stock market. Analysts, however, pointed out that key promises regarding Iran's nuclear program and regime change in Tehran had not been fulfilled by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who distanced himself from the negotiations. The G7 summit also aimed to bolster support for Ukraine through further sanctions on Russia and energy aid. Separately, eight individuals are presumed dead after a B-52 bomber crashed in California, with a flight-control malfunction suspected as the cause. California Governor Gavin Newsom also claimed Trump directed the Department of Justice to investigate him and his wife.

At the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer experienced an awkward start when a scheduled meeting on Ukraine, including Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, was delayed, leaving him to make small talk with other leaders. This moment highlighted Starmer's perceived waning influence, particularly in contrast to his previous interactions with Trump. While Starmer's team emphasized his ongoing engagement and productive conversations with Trump, the absence of a planned bilateral meeting and Trump's comments on international shipping suggested a diminished role for Britain. Starmer did, however, hold bilateral meetings with Zelenskyy and the German Chancellor, and announced new investments and the date for a UK-EU summit. The article also notes the ongoing speculation about a potential leadership challenge within the Labour party.

Iran's leadership is divided over the implementation of a recent memorandum of understanding with the United States, with factions debating its terms amid fears of capitulation. The new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has focused on protecting Iran's nuclear and missile programs, leading to varied interpretations of his stance on the deal. Senior officials within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and security apparatus, while emphasizing readiness for military operations, have stressed that Iran will not abandon its regional allies, particularly Hezbollah. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, a pragmatic conservative and former IRGC commander, supports the deal, believing a beneficial agreement is possible if Iran secures achievements on the battlefield. The Supreme National Security Council, despite some hardliner opposition, ultimately ratified and communicated the understanding with the US.

US Vice President JD Vance stated that details of a US-Iran agreement, set for a ceremonial signing on Friday in Geneva, are still being worked out. The memorandum of understanding aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and lift the US naval blockade, with financial incentives for Iran tied to meeting benchmarks. Many Senate Republicans expressed skepticism, citing unanswered questions and a lack of information, including concerns about compliance verification and the inclusion of a potential $300 billion reconstruction fund for Iran, reportedly to be funded by Gulf states. Vance indicated the full text would be released this week, emphasizing that Iran would receive no money without fulfilling its obligations.

At a G7 summit in France, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a strong warning to Iran, stating that "all hell will rain down" if the country attempts to acquire a nuclear weapon. Trump described a tentative ceasefire deal with Iran as a "wall to a nuclear weapon," emphasizing his commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining such a capability. He also expressed unusually critical remarks regarding Israel's military offensive in Lebanon, suggesting that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "has to be more responsible." Trump's comments came as a memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Iran is set to be formally signed, with further negotiations planned. He indicated that he believes Iran's current leadership is rational.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israeli forces will maintain a "security zone" in occupied Lebanon. The article does not specify when this statement was made or provide further details on the extent or duration of this security zone. The prime minister's declaration indicates Israel's intention to continue its military presence in the region. The article also mentions Syria and Gaza in relation to Israel's security posture, though specific actions or intentions regarding these areas are not elaborated upon in the provided content.

A US-Iran deal aims to restore the pre-war status quo, focusing on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and deferring nuclear program negotiations. This agreement, reached late Sunday, includes a 60-day ceasefire and hinges on sanctions relief for Iran and resolving issues around maritime services. The deal does not impose restrictions on Iran's ballistic missiles, call for regime change, or address Iran's proxy forces. Implementation details are being finalized in Doha before a signing ceremony in Geneva on Friday. A key test will be Israel's actions in Lebanon, which Iran considers integral to the deal. The agreement emphasizes verified, graduated steps to avoid a repeat of past non-compliance.

President Donald Trump arrived at the G7 summit in France, touting a preliminary deal to end the Iran war. He suggested he would also seek to end hostilities in Ukraine and Lebanon. Trump met with French President Emmanuel Macron and expressed optimism about the Iran agreement, stating it would bring success to the world and benefit the Middle East by lowering oil prices and boosting the stock market. His arrival comes amid G7 partners' wariness of his geopolitical actions, including tariff threats against France and questioning of NATO. Despite relief over the Iran deal, unease persists regarding Trump's other statements and actions.

President Donald Trump is heading to the G7 summit in France following an announcement of an agreement intended to end the U.S. war with Iran. The deal, which was reached after days of negotiations and amidst recent escalations between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump stated the agreement would lead to the U.S. ending its blockade, though Iran indicated its closure of the strait would continue until the deal is officially signed. Details of the agreement remain scarce, but it is expected to involve pre-implementation discussions and technical talks on Iran's nuclear program, potentially including sanctions relief and economic incentives for Tehran. The summit will also address the war in Ukraine, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy invited to participate.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel will continue its occupation of Lebanese and Syrian territory, despite a US-Iran ceasefire agreement. Netanyahu announced at a press conference that Israeli forces will remain in Lebanon, occupying approximately 570 square kilometers, as long as deemed necessary for security. This stance comes as a memorandum of understanding, reportedly including the termination of military operations in Lebanon, is expected to be signed by Iran and the US. Israel has been engaged in conflict with Hezbollah since October 2023, which escalated into a full-scale invasion of Lebanon. Netanyahu indicated Israel will continue to target "Iran's terror arms" and maintain its presence to counter Iran.

Israel is reacting with a mix of caution and criticism to a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between President Trump and Iran, which reportedly ends the war and halts military operations. While Prime Minister Netanyahu has not yet commented, Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the IDF will not withdraw from southern Lebanon, emphasizing Israel's security interests. Experts express concern over the unclear details of the deal, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear program and missile capabilities. Opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the agreement, claiming it fails to achieve Israel's war goals. Israeli officials have conveyed their security concerns to U.S. counterparts, with some asserting that Israel is not bound by the MOU.

A new US-Iran deal is set to be signed, aiming to restart nuclear talks in Geneva. The article argues this deal largely returns the situation to its pre-war state, despite a "feckless war of choice" initiated by the US and Israel. This conflict resulted in significant loss of life and irrevocably changed Iran, strengthening its military at the expense of civilian governance. Donald Trump is claiming credit for resolving issues his war created, such as the Strait of Hormuz closure, but the article notes ambiguities remain regarding Iran's "service fees" and frozen assets. The deal also faces challenges from Israel's stance on the conflict with Hezbollah and internal political pressures in both the US and Iran, while the core nuclear dispute remains unresolved.

Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Israeli forces will not withdraw from territory seized in southern Lebanon. This comes after the US and Iran announced a preliminary agreement to end hostilities in the Middle East, pending a final settlement in approximately two months. The interim deal, which includes a ceasefire in Lebanon, has reportedly caused anger and concern among Israeli officials who were not involved in the negotiations. Despite the agreement, Israel intends to maintain its presence in occupied territories indefinitely and has warned of strong retaliation if Iran attacks in response to Israeli actions in Lebanon. The exact details of the US-Iran agreement remain unclear, but it appears to include a halt to Hezbollah's attacks on Israel.