Israel Orders Military to Pause Sensitive Operations in Southern Lebanon at U.S. Request, Report Says

Israel has ordered its military to temporarily hold off on military operations in southern Lebanon that are considered “sensitive,” following a request from the United States, Israel’s public broadcaster reported. According to Jin10, the report said the directive will remain in effect until further notice and will depend on developments in the U.S.-Iran situation as well as progress in Israel-Lebanon negotiations. The report said the United States has recently been focused on military confrontation with Iran and is concerned that Israeli actions could further escalate tensions. Citing an Israeli security source, the report said the Israeli military is currently exercising restraint at the request of the United States. The report also said the Israeli military could begin withdrawing as early as next week from two areas within a so-called “security zone” it has designated in southern Lebanon. It said the withdrawal plan is part of a framework agreement reached by Israel and Lebanon in late June in Washington, D.C. The report added that the two sides are expected to resume talks next week in Rome, Italy.