Ben-Gvir Criticizes Lebanon Agreement, Calls for Cabinet Vote

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has voiced his disapproval of the agreement reached between Israel, Lebanon, and the United States concerning the Israeli Defense Forces' (IDF) withdrawal from southern Lebanon. He has formally requested Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to bring the deal before the cabinet for a vote, stating, "The agreement with Lebanon is a serious mistake." Ben Gvir has been vocal against the agreement for several weeks, highlighting concerns over Hezbollah's continued armament.

He stated, "At the moment, we remain in control of most of the area, but the state of Lebanon will not disarm Hezbollah of its weapons. There is no reason to trust Lebanon to take Hezbollah’s weapons away. Only IDF soldiers will destroy Hezbollah. No other body will do it for us."

The agreement allows for an IDF withdrawal while maintaining operational control in the security zone until Hezbollah is disarmed. Recent discussions in Washington led to a framework agreement that includes a pilot program for the IDF's gradual withdrawal from two designated areas, one south of the Litani River and another to the north.

While the IDF is expected to reduce its presence in these areas, it will not fully withdraw from Lebanese territory at this stage. The pilot program aims to facilitate the entry of Lebanese army forces into these locations, with Israeli forces remaining deployed to ensure security until the situation stabilizes. Ben Gvir's call for a cabinet vote reflects ongoing tensions regarding national security and the complexities of the agreement with Lebanon.