Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has sharply criticized the new framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon, calling it a historic mistake and a missed opportunity. In a post on social media platform X, he said Israel should not merely weaken Hezbollah but crush it completely. Ben Gvir argued that the deal grants Hezbollah a lifeline through a ceasefire and dismissed claims that the Lebanese army could neutralize the group, describing the army as weak and infiltrated. He added that he had opposed the agreement in cabinet discussions for weeks and would continue to do so.

In contrast, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the same agreement as a historic achievement. He said the United States and Lebanon had recognized Israel’s right to maintain a security zone inside Lebanon until Hezbollah and other militant groups are disarmed. Netanyahu described the deal as a major setback for Iran and Hezbollah, emphasizing that Israel, Lebanon, and the U.S. were united in rejecting Iranian influence in the region.

Netanyahu added that both countries agreed on pilot programs to disarm Hezbollah in specific border areas under Lebanese army control.