Israel Considers Lebanon Buffer Zone Amidst Continued Strikes on Iran
Jerusalem, – Israel announced its consideration of establishing a “defensive buffer zone” within southern Lebanon, even as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed the continuation of military operations against Iran. This development casts a shadow over hopes for de-escalation, despite US President Donald Trump’s recent statement indicating a potential opportunity for a ceasefire agreement CNN.
Israel’s Plan for Southern Lebanon
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Israeli forces would aim to control areas up to the Litani River, a waterway approximately 30 kilometers north of the Israeli border NDTV. Katz indicated that this military presence could be prolonged, with the intention of controlling bridges used by Hezbollah for personnel and weapons transport.
The announcement has drawn strong condemnation from Hezbollah, which labeled the move an “existential threat” to Lebanon. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich further fueled concerns by suggesting Israel should “exercise sovereignty” in southern Lebanon NDTV.
Lebanon’s Response and Internal Tensions
In a significant diplomatic move, the Lebanese government expelled Iranian ambassador Mohammad Reza Shibani, declaring him persona non grata and ordering his departure by Sunday. This unprecedented action signals a departure from decades of Iranian influence in Lebanon.
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam urged Hezbollah to cease attacks on Israel, emphasizing that retaliatory actions against Iran are not within Lebanon’s purview. However, Hezbollah criticized the expulsion of the Iranian ambassador, alleging it serves Israeli interests and exacerbates internal divisions amid fears of renewed conflict within Lebanon.
Continued Israeli Strikes on Iran
Simultaneously, Israel has continued its air strikes on Iran, with Netanyahu asserting his commitment to ongoing military action against Tehran. He stated, “There is much more to come,” echoing the sentiment of Israeli officials who doubt Iran will accept US demands in ongoing negotiations CNN.
In response, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned of “massive missile and drone attacks” against Israeli forces in northern Israel and the Gaza region should Israel persist with attacks in Lebanon and Palestine.
Netanyahu’s Victory Claims and Mossad’s Role
Netanyahu has repeatedly declared victory over Iran, initially following a 12-day conflict in June 2025, claiming the elimination of Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities and nuclear program CNN. However, this claim was challenged eight months later with the launch of the current conflict, dubbed “Epic Fury” by the US and “Roaring Lion” by Israel.
Reports indicate that Netanyahu embraced a Mossad plan to incite a popular uprising within Iran at the start of the war, hoping for a swift regime change Times of Israel. However, these efforts have reportedly fallen short, with US and Israeli officials expressing skepticism about the prospects for regime change in Iran.
Despite President Trump hailing “productive” talks aimed at ending hostilities, the situation remains volatile, with no clear end in sight.