Israel Asserts Lebanon Framework Deal Supersedes U.S.-Iran Memorandum
Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter stated Monday that Jerusalem views the framework agreement reached with Lebanon last month as superseding the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between Washington and Iran. Leiter told the Council on Foreign Relations that while the U.S. brokered the Israel-Lebanon deal to limit Iranian influence, the subsequent U.S.-Iran MOU creates conflicting directives regarding military operations in Lebanon.
Why the Israel-Lebanon Deal and U.S.-Iran MOU Conflict
The tension centers on two documents. According to Ambassador Leiter, the framework deal between Israel and Lebanon focuses on preventing Iran from influencing developments within Lebanese borders. However, the MOU signed by President Donald Trump with Iran specifically extends a U.S.-Iran ceasefire to include Lebanon and calls for an end to military operations there.
Leiter argued that the MOU is primarily a document intended to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after Iran closed the channel following U.S. and Israeli strikes. He asserted that the MOU “is not a closure of the operation against Iran and its nuclear pursuits.”
What is the Plan for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF)?
Israel intends to remain in southern Lebanon until the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) can verifiably prove they have begun disarming Hezbollah. Leiter identified a primary obstacle as the presence of Hezbollah activists and sympathizers within LAF units.
To resolve this, Israel submitted a proposal for the U.S. to vet LAF units to remove Hezbollah sympathizers. Leiter noted that while President Trump suggested in May that Israel should handle the vetting and training, Secretary of State Marco Rubio intervened, stating that the LAF is not yet ready to “love the Israelis.”
Israel has offered two incentives to support the current Lebanese government:
- Providing intelligence on individuals seeking to harm Lebanese leaders.
- Lobbying Washington to increase financial assistance to the LAF, provided the force proves its willingness to confront Hezbollah.
How are U.S.-Israel Relations Holding Up?
Despite public disagreements, Leiter described the relationship between the U.S. and Israel as “good and solid.” He characterized reports of a rupture as overblown and driven by media interest in drama. He cited the Israeli opposition to the potential U.S. sale of F-35 fighter jet parts to Turkey as a legitimate difference of opinion, noting that the U.S. maintains the right to make its own decisions.
Leiter also addressed comments by Vice President JD Vance, who claimed Trump is the only world leader remaining who is sympathetic toward Israel. Leiter disagreed with the notion that Israel is diplomatically isolated, pointing to ties with India, the UAE, Azerbaijan, Somalia, and Armenia.
What Happens Next in the Diplomacy Timeline?
Negotiations are moving forward on multiple tracks. According to Leiter, the next round of talks between Israel and Lebanon is scheduled for July 14 and 15 in Rome.
Key upcoming diplomatic engagements include:
| Date | Event | Participants |
|---|---|---|
| July 14-15 | Negotiation Round | Israeli and Lebanese teams (Rome) |
| July 21 | White House Meeting | President Trump and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun |
| TBD | U.S. Visit | President Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu |
Leiter expressed a “sanguine” outlook regarding a final, holistic deal addressing Iran’s nuclear program and ballistic missile capabilities. He stated he cannot imagine an ultimate agreement that lacks a clause limiting the development of ballistic missiles, despite President Trump’s recent suggestion that Tehran should be allowed some missiles for self-defense.