Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the U.S.-brokered framework agreement between Jerusalem and Lebanon on Friday as a robust first step toward peace and a rejection of Iranian interference in the region.The breakthrough could lead to a path of diplomatic normalization between the two countries, Lebanon and Israel, that are in a formal state of war.The framework agreement may impede the Iran-backed terrorist movement Hezbollah that has gained control over parts of the Lebanese state, according to experts.Hezbollah and Israel have fought two wars since the terrorist organization joined Hamas’ invasion of Israel in Oct.
7, 2023 and following U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran in February.US ENVOY NEARS LEBANON-ISRAEL CEASEFIRE THAT WOULD DISARM HEZBOLLAH TERROR GROUPHezbollah launches long-range missiles from Lebanon into northern Israel within 48 hours of strikes on Iran, escalating the widening conflict amid Operation Epic Fury.(Hadi Mizban/AP)Rubio said, "Today is a good day in that we are happy to announce a framework agreement between the sovereign government of Lebanon and, of course, the government of Israel, with a mediation and support of the United States of America, that begins to put in place a framework for lasting peace and security."He added, "And that’s what these two nations deserve."According to the Press Service of Israel (TPS-IL), Netanyahu termed the deal "a severe blow to Iran." He added that the Islamic Republic seeks to force an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, and "essentially Israel, Lebanon and the United States are telling them: This is none of your business.
You have no role in southern Lebanon — neither you, nor Hezbollah nor any other terrorist organization."U.S.Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, wrote on X:" Was there all week but had to fly back to Israel Thursday night.
Historic opportunity but key is disarming Hezbollah, evil terrorists who have killed Americans.Israel,...