Fears are escalating that the peace agreement between US President Donald Trump and Iran may face obstacles from Israel, as Israel has pledged to maintain its presence in Lebanon indefinitely. The resolution of conflicts with Israel’s northern neighbor is considered crucial for Tehran and is a focal point of the upcoming deal. Reports emerged on Monday of Israeli air-strikes and artillery attacks on Hezbollah-controlled areas in southern Lebanon, defying the imminent agreement.

Shortly after Trump’s announcement of a new peace deal, which includes a 60-day consultation period to be signed by both parties in Switzerland on Friday, Israel continued its military actions in southern Lebanon. Despite demands from Tehran to include Lebanon, particularly Hezbollah, in any long-term agreement related to the US-Iran conflict, Israeli leaders have affirmed their intent to keep troops in southern Lebanon. The ongoing clashes in southern Lebanon signify Israel’s determination to combat Hezbollah.

Iran has cautioned that it holds the US responsible for any Israeli assaults on Lebanon, asserting that Israel’s actions are coordinated with the US. Tensions between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump are rising, with Netanyahu under pressure to confront Hezbollah, potentially jeopardizing the Iran deal, as Tehran seeks to extend the agreement to include Hezbollah.

The Memorandum of Understanding will initiate a 60-day consultation period, address the Strait of Hormuz, and discuss Iran’s nuclear program. The agreement is speculated to involve significant financial reparations, unfreezing of assets, and relief from sanctions in exchange for ceasing hostilities. However, Tehran insists that any deal must encompass Lebanon and Hezbollah to be acceptable.

Iran’s Foreign Minister emphasized Lebanon’s integral role in the agreement, emphasizing respect for Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Israeli officials, including Defense Minister Israel Katz, have reiterated their commitment to maintaining troops in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza. They have warned of strong retaliation if Iran targets Israel due to events in Lebanon.

While some Israeli politicians criticize Netanyahu for excluding Israel from the agreement, Trump condemned Israel’s recent attack on Hezbollah in Beirut, urging for restraint especially as a peace deal with Iran is on the horizon.