Israel Backs US Blockade, Talks Begin With Lebanon on Hezbollah

Israel Supports US Naval Blockade on Iran, Prime Minister’s Office Confirms

The Israeli government has publicly affirmed its strong support for a U.S.-led naval blockade against Iran, announced by President Trump following Iran’s violation of a ceasefire agreement. This action came after Iran failed to open the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route, and disregarded international maritime law. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed the ongoing situation with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who emphasized that the primary U.S. concern is preventing Iran from enriching uranium and removing existing enriched materials.

Close Coordination Between Israel and the United States

Officials stressed the unprecedented level of cooperation between Israel and the United States, noting daily communication between Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Trump. This close relationship extends to military and security matters, with forces from both nations working in tandem. The partnership aims to address regional security threats effectively.

Ongoing Campaign Against Hezbollah in Lebanon

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) continue their campaign against Hezbollah in Lebanon, discovering numerous Hezbollah sites daily. Many of these sites are located within civilian areas, highlighting the challenges of operating against an enemy embedded in populated zones. Prime Minister Netanyahu recently visited Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to push Hezbollah away from the border and dismantle terrorist infrastructure near Israel’s northern frontier.

Actions Target Terrorists, Not Lebanese Citizens

Israel clarifies that its operations are not directed at the Lebanese people or the Lebanese government but specifically at the Hezbollah terrorist organization. Hezbollah is described as holding the Lebanese population hostage. The government of Lebanon has reportedly reached out for talks, mediated by the United States, following significant degradation of Hezbollah’s capabilities.

Dialogue Opens with Lebanon to Disarm Hezbollah

A new dialogue, mediated by the U.S., has begun between Israel and Lebanon. The primary goal of these talks is to disarm Hezbollah, remove the organization from Lebanon, and establish peaceful relations between the two nations. Israel has stated it will not agree to a ceasefire with Hezbollah as long as the group continues its attacks on Israeli civilians. The Israeli government is seeking a peace agreement that includes the disarmament and demilitarization of Hezbollah and southern Lebanon.

Holocaust Remembrance Day and Historical Parallels

The government meeting occurred ahead of Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom HaShoah). Prime Minister Netanyahu and his wife met with Holocaust survivors, drawing a powerful parallel between the past and the present. The Prime Minister stated, “During the Holocaust, we were hunted like animals for being Jewish, and we couldn’t do anything about it. But today, the tables have turned, and we are the ones hunting our oppressors.” He highlighted that those who sought to destroy Jews in the past are now fighting for their own survival.

Israel’s Strength and Self-Defense

Netanyahu emphasized the critical difference today: Israel possesses a state, leaders, and the military power to defend itself. He argued that without Israel’s independent capabilities and the IDF, cities like Isfahan, Natanz, and Bushehr would face destruction, mirroring the fate of Holocaust sites like Auschwitz and Sobibor. The message underscores Israel’s resolve to protect its people and its future.

Addressing Press Inquiries

During the press briefing, officials addressed several key questions:

• Regarding the dialogue with Lebanon, the objective is for Lebanon to commit to disarming Hezbollah, demilitarizing southern Lebanon, and signing a peace agreement with Israel.
• When asked about reports of new settlements in Judea and Samaria, officials stated they had nothing to share at that time.
• On participation in the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports, Israel confirmed its support for the blockade.
• Concerning potential escalation from the U.S. naval blockade and Israeli preparations for Iranian attacks, officials reiterated Israel’s support for the blockade and referred to previous statements about the dialogue with Lebanon.
• Regarding direct Israeli involvement in strikes in Lebanon after calls with President Trump, officials stated they had no comment.
• On the state of emergency in northern Israel due to Hezbollah missile attacks, officials acknowledged the ongoing attacks, praised the resilience of Israeli civilians, and confirmed that safety protocols are being followed.
• Officials declined to comment on specific details regarding Ambassador Lighthizer’s role in the negotiations with Lebanon.

Looking Ahead

The coming days will be crucial in observing the progress of the U.S.-mediated talks between Israel and Lebanon. The effectiveness of the naval blockade on Iran and the response from regional and international actors will also be closely watched. Israel’s continued commitment to countering Hezbollah and ensuring its security on its northern border remains a central focus.

Source: Israeli Govt. provides update on Iran war (YouTube)