Netanyahu calls Lebanon deal a ‘massive blow’ to Iran
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has described the framework agreement with Lebanon as a "historic accomplishment" and a "massive blow to Iran and Hezbollah".
Netanyahu said the understandings reached with Lebanon and the United States recognise Israel's right to maintain a security zone inside southern Lebanon for as long as it considers necessary.
He said Israel would remain there until Hezbollah and other armed groups are disarmed and no longer pose a threat.
Netanyahu also said the agreement includes a pilot programme in two areas near the Yellow Line aimed at disarming Hezbollah and transferring control to the Lebanese army.
"This is a massive blow to Iran and Hezbollah," Netanyahu said, arguing that the agreement sidelines Tehran from Lebanese affairs. "We are breaking the Iranian axis of terror, but we are also breaking the Iranian diplomatic axis."