Netanyahu (File photo)
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in his first briefing since the two-week ceasefire with US-Iran ceasefire, signalled that the truce remains fragile, asserting that it is “not the end” and that Israel retains the option to resume military action if its objectives are not met. Emphasising a cautious stance, Netanyahu said Israel has its “finger on the trigger” and is ready to “return to battle at any moment” if required.Although, he stressed that the ceasefire agreement was reached “in full cooperation” with Israel, dismissing any suggestion that the country was informed at the last minute. At the same time, Netanyahu made it clear that the understanding with Iran does not extend to Hezbollah, warning that Israeli forces will “continue to strike them” despite the pause in hostilities with Tehran.Meanwhile, the humanitarian toll continues to mount. According to Lebanese Civil Defense, the death toll from Israeli strikes across Lebanon on Wednesday has risen to 254, highlighting the intensity of ongoing operations despite the broader ceasefire arrangement.The United States and Iran have reached a two-week ceasefire, pausing hostilities to open the door for talks rather than ending the conflict. The temporary truce will see both sides step back from military action, with negotiations set to begin in Islamabad. A key condition is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, with Washington linking the ceasefire’s continuation to safe maritime passage. In parallel, Iran has proposed broader terms, including sanctions relief and release of frozen assets.The pause remains fragile and conditional, with both sides keeping military options open if commitments are not met.
