Netanyahu hails Lebanon deal as ‘blow’ to Iran and Hezbollah

Netanyahu hails Lebanon deal as ‘blow’ to Iran and Hezbollah Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has welcomed the US-brokered framework agreement with Lebanon, describing it as a major gain for Israel and a setback for Iran and Hezbollah. "We have reached a historic agreement for the State of Israel, following direct negotiations" with Lebanon, Netanyahu said during a televised news conference. "This is a blow to Iran and Hezbollah," he added. His comments came a day after Israel and Lebanon reached the framework under US sponsorship. But Israeli officials have already said the army will remain inside parts of southern Lebanon, raising doubts over whether the agreement will lead to a real withdrawal or end Israel’s attacks on Lebanese territory.