Israel Unlikely to Withdraw From South Lebanon Despite U.S. Pressure, Report Says

Israel is not expected to pull its forces out of southern Lebanon despite pressure from Washington, although it is considering adjustments to its military deployment aimed at reducing risks to its troops, according to Israeli assessments cited by the newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth.

The report said Israel's security establishment remains committed to maintaining a military presence in southern Lebanon, while reviewing alternative operational arrangements related to troop positioning and force protection.

The assessments come amid growing public signs of disagreement between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump over developments in Lebanon.

Acknowledging differences with Washington, Netanyahu stressed that relations between the two countries remain strong.

"We are the leaders of two proud and independent nations. We agree on many things and disagree on some," Netanyahu said, without specifying the issues on which the two sides differ.

The remarks followed criticism by Trump over the human cost of Israeli military operations in Lebanon. The U.S. president recently questioned the value of continued strikes on buildings and infrastructure, expressing concern about the scale of casualties resulting from the conflict.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance has also adopted a sharper tone toward the Israeli government, reportedly urging Israeli officials to refrain from publicly criticizing Washington and emphasizing that the United States remains Israel's principal international ally.

According to Yedioth Ahronoth, upcoming talks between Israel and Lebanon are expected to address a pilot security initiative being developed in coordination with the Lebanese Army. The project is aimed at enhancing security and stability along the border region while limiting Hezbollah's influence in southern Lebanon.

Israeli officials reportedly view the initiative as part of broader efforts to reshape the security landscape in the border area following months of conflict.

The report added that any future modifications to Israel's military deployment in southern Lebanon would be based on operational and security considerations on the ground rather than on external political pressure.

Israeli security officials continue to argue that maintaining a military presence in southern Lebanon remains necessary to address potential threats and ensure the security of communities in northern Israel.