As the days pass, it is becoming increasingly clear \u2013 at least for now \u2013 how significant last week\u2019s joint Israeli-Lebanese-American statement was as a diplomatic achievement for Israel.<\/p>\n
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the delegation led by Israeli Ambassador to the US Yechiel Leiter<\/a> succeeded in frustrating Iran\u2019s efforts to link the situation in Lebanon with the negotiations between Tehran and Washington.<\/p>\n The joint statement called for a ceasefire, but on the condition that Hezbollah withdraw from southern Lebanon<\/a> and refrain from firing at Israel. In effect, the wording reaffirmed Israel\u2019s right to defend itself while remaining acceptable to the Lebanese side.<\/p>\n The agreement also referenced the launch of a Lebanese pilot program aimed at disarming Hezbollah. More importantly, it reflected Lebanon\u2019s clear desire to send a message to Iran: Do not interfere in our affairs.<\/p>\n Another achievement of the ceasefire was the prevention of a scenario that had concerned Israeli officials: an Iranian demand that the US pressure Israel to withdraw from parts of Lebanon as part of the negotiations between Tehran and Washington.<\/p>\n The agreement explicitly states that the extent of any Israeli withdrawal depends solely on the success of the Lebanese pilot program to disarm Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.<\/p>\n