LEGITIMATE CONCERNS OVER USA-IRAN MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING

JERUSALEM, JUNE 21 /SRNA/ – Israeli President Isaac Herzog has said today that Israel has legitimate concerns over the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran and the subsequent negotiations on an agreement, particularly because of Tehran’s influence over the Lebanese movement Hezbollah.

“We are certainly not opposed to a diplomatic outcome to the war, but we are expressing concerns that are legitimate and speaking openly about them,” Herzog told Fox News.

He noted that Israel and Lebanon are scheduled to hold another round of direct talks in Washington on June 23 in an effort to reach a peace agreement.

Herzog believes such an agreement cannot be reached if Iran maintains significant influence and seeks to involve itself in the conflict in Lebanon through its proxy, Hezbollah.

He accused Hezbollah of repeatedly violating the ceasefire in Lebanon that was brokered by the United States.

Asked about growing tensions between Washington and Jerusalem over the U.S.–Iran agreement, Herzog said that Israel and the United States maintain a very good relationship and dialogue at all levels, reports Sputnik.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that his country would make no concessions when it comes to preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons or regarding military pressure on Hezbollah.

He reiterated his claim that Israel launched operations against Iran last year, adding that substantial results had been achieved and would not be relinquished.

“We will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as necessary in order to protect the residents of the north and all citizens of Israel from Hezbollah attacks,” Netanyahu said.