US pressure and internal criticism: Israel reassesses Lebanon ceasefire amid Iran escalation

Report by Amal Shehadeh, English adaptation by Yasmine Jaroudi

Israel marked its annual memorial events for fallen soldiers under the shadow of escalating issues tied to Lebanon and Iran, on the eve of what it calls Independence Day.

On the Lebanese front, and despite heated debates within the security cabinet over the ceasefire, Israeli officials have sought to signal openness to diplomacy. 

According to informed sources, a planned round of direct talks between Tel Aviv and Beirut in Washington on Thursday is expected to focus on the possibility of extending the ceasefire. The diplomatic messaging comes alongside renewed threats from Defense Minister Israel Katz. 

Meanwhile, the head of Israel's northern command said the continued deployment of Israeli forces in South Lebanon is intended to secure long-term security objectives.

On the Iranian front, Israel has maintained a dual approach. While the air force has circulated signals about readiness for a potential surprise strike if negotiations in Islamabad fail, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing mounting domestic criticism. Opponents accuse him of yielding to U.S. pressure on the Lebanon ceasefire and question his claims of success in the broader confrontation with Iran.

As Israel monitors ongoing contacts between the United States and Iran, internal discussions suggest the possibility of renewed escalation in Lebanon. This comes amid pressure from ministers, northern residents, and political factions opposing any extension of the ceasefire.

Such pressure also extends to Washington, which played a key role in imposing the initial truce and now faces the challenge of sustaining it amid competing regional and domestic dynamics.