Netanyahu Calls Lebanon Framework Agreement 'Historic' and a Step Toward Peace

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Saturday that the framework agreement reached with Lebanon represents a "major blow to Iran and its axis." He emphasized that the withdrawal of the Israeli army from the "security zones" in southern Lebanon depends on the disarmament of Hezbollah.

Netanyahu added that the Israeli military has destroyed approximately 90 percent of Hezbollah's missile capabilities. He affirmed that Israel will continue to dismantle the party's infrastructure, asserting that "there is much more to be done" and stressing that Israel will enforce calm along the Lebanese border.

He also mentioned that the United States and Lebanon agreed to the continued presence of the Israeli army in the "security zone" in southern Lebanon, confirming the "freedom of movement and operation" for Israeli forces to confront any threats in the south.

Netanyahu indicated that Israel has "other forthcoming agreements with Lebanon," praising the Lebanese government for demonstrating courage in reaching the deal. He also stated that Israel will confront any attempts by Hezbollah to undermine the agreement with Lebanon.

The prime minister pointed out that the Israeli army will withdraw from "experimental zones," starting with the towns of Froun and Western Zoutar in southern Lebanon.

Regarding regional matters, Netanyahu said that Iran "is no longer as strong as before," and noted that Hezbollah has not received the support it was promised by Tehran.

Concerning the Gaza Strip, Netanyahu reported that Israel has "approached control over 70 percent of the Gaza Strip's territory."