Ben-Gvir Says Israel ‘Will Not Allow’ Trump to Make a Peace Deal With Iran as IDF Kills Dozens in Lebanon

Key Points:

• Israel launched over 120 airstrikes in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley on Tuesday, targeting Hezbollah positions and violating a 45-day ceasefire, resulting in at least 31 deaths and 40 injuries according to Lebanon's health ministry.
• Far-right Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir opposed ongoing US-Iran peace talks, claiming the Israeli Cabinet unanimously rejects any agreement that could harm Israel, and suggested intensifying military actions including cutting off electricity in Lebanon and expanding occupation zones.
• Despite Iran's condemnation of recent US attacks and ceasefire violations, Tehran remains engaged in negotiations with the US, reportedly discussing a framework involving the restoration of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and US troop withdrawals, though the US disputes some reports.
• Israel's expanded military campaign has displaced over one million Lebanese residents and involved large-scale destruction of homes, with some Israeli officials advocating for retaliatory demolitions in Lebanese cities in response to Hezbollah drone attacks.
• Critics, including former Israeli diplomat Shaiel Ben-Ephraim, argue that Israel's intensified assault on Lebanon aims to undermine both the ceasefire and US-Iran negotiations, perpetuating a broader regional conflict.