CNN: Israel, Lebanon set aside in negotiations with Iran

If this sounds like a recipe for another failed truce, it could really be that, writes CNN.

Iran has set Lebanon as one of its top priorities in negotiations with the US, insisting on a complete interruption of hostilities, according to the first point of the memorandum of understanding signed earlier.

When fighting escalated Friday, Iran postponed its participation in the talks. Later, the United States announced a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. But when fighting broke out again Saturday, Iran said it was closing the Hormuz Strait.

Despite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's best efforts to keep the war in Lebanon separate from the US-Iran truce, negotiators in Tehran managed to successfully link both issues. As a result, President Donald Trump has pressured Israel to stop fighting and has imposed restrictions on the Israeli army, even after five Israeli soldiers were killed within 24 hours of the weekend.

According to Lebanon's Public Health Ministry, Israeli attacks in Lebanon have killed dozens since the signing of the agreement several days ago. The Iranian chief negotiator made it clear that he would establish with the US what he considers Israeli violations of the agreement as soon as the talks begin.

Israeli President Isaac Herzeg tried to counter Iran's involvement in the Lebanon issue, but this is a reality that Israel currently has no power to change.

“Iran should not be involved in the Lebanon crisis at all. The world must oppose, and toėia makes it clear that Iran cannot be included in Lebanon” said Herzeg in an interview for Fox News on Sunday.

Instead of Iran being set aside, Israel and Lebanon have remained out of negotiations, even though the two countries are expected to meet under the auspices of the Trump administration in Washington later this week.