Israel’s Defense Minister, he said, this Friday (June 12, 2026), on its social networks, that the country does not intend to leave the areas it occupies in Lebanon, Syria and the Gaza Strip. The statement was made amid negotiations between the United States and Iran for a possible agreement involving the Iranian nuclear program.
According to Katz, the Israeli security strategy will continue to be based on preventive action against threats considered near and far. The minister stated that Israel seeks results “decisive” and does not intend to make concessions on issues related to national security.
The minister also declared that Israel and the United States share the objective of preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons. According to him, cooperation between the two countries should also include issues linked to the Iranian missile program and Tehran’s support for armed groups operating in the Middle East.
AGREEMENTS IN PROGRESS
The statements were made while authorities of the and Iran indicate progress in negotiations towards an understanding between the two countries. This Friday, the Iranian government stated that an agreement could be concluded in the coming days. The White House also demonstrated optimism, although it recognized that some points still depend on negotiation.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the memorandum under discussion covers Iran’s nuclear program, economic sanctions relief and measures related to navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. According to the chancellor, the document also provides mechanisms to reduce tensions in Lebanon and other conflict fronts in the region.
A U.S. official said the talks include reopening the Strait of Hormuz, lifting restrictions on Iranian ports, dismantling Tehran’s nuclear program and transferring the country’s enriched uranium stockpiles. The source, however, did not mention measures related to Lebanon.
According to the same authority, any easing of sanctions will depend on full compliance with the commitments assumed by the Iranian government in the agreement.
