IDF redeployment hinges on Hezbollah disarmament, US officials say ahead of Netanyahu-Trump summit

Senior US officials stated that IDF withdrawal from Lebanon depends on Hezbollah disarmament and restoration of Lebanese sovereignty, ahead of Netanyahu's meeting with Trump. The conditions-based framework aims to achieve three goals: restoring Lebanese sovereignty, dismantling Hezbollah infrastructure, and securing Israel's borders. Trump noted differences with Netanyahu on Iran but expressed openness to negotiations.

Senior US administration officials told Walla on Tuesday that Israel's withdrawal of IDF troops from Lebanese territory is conditional on Hezbollah's disarmament and the restoration of Lebanese state sovereignty throughout the country. The statement came ahead of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's scheduled meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House. The officials described a conditions-based deal between Israel and Lebanon, with three goals: restoring Lebanese sovereignty, dismantling Hezbollah's terrorist infrastructure, and allowing Israel to return to secure borders. They noted that a pilot program began last week, with IDF redeployment in the Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh area following talks in Rome. Asked about Israeli withdrawal from Syria, officials did not respond. Trump, speaking to reporters, said he and Netanyahu are 'pretty close' on Iran but acknowledged a small difference. He added that Iran suffered a severe blow and has approached the US seeking negotiations. Trump also addressed Turkey, saying no one will tell him what to sell, and noted that Turkish President Erdoğan is not a big fan of Netanyahu or Israel. The meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, is expected to be closed to the press.