A US-sponsored agreement paving the way for peace between Lebanon and Israel has failed to change the situation on the ground. Israel continues to occupy southern Lebanon and recently launched targeted strikes in the region. During a visit to the occupied area, Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed that the Israeli army will not withdraw as long as Hezbollah remains.
The peace deal faces an uncertain future after Hezbollah vowed to derail its implementation. A central component of the security deal is Hezbollah's disarmament, a mandate that no Lebanese government has the power to enforce. These conditions have caused deep concern among Lebanese locals, including those who oppose Hezbollah, regarding the deal their government has made.
As the only guarantor for ending the conflict and securing an Israeli withdrawal, the U.S. finds itself in a complex position. Analysts note that a long-term peace deal between the U.S. and Iran may depend on the agreement between Israel and Lebanon, which presents a problem. Although analysts suggest both sides want the MOU to succeed, Israel's actions in Lebanon serve as a formidable obstacle.