NETANYAHOU SAYS ISRAEL NOT PART OF DEAL
ISRAEL ATTACKS LEBANON, STRAIT STILL NOT OPEN
Both sides seem to indicate that they have agreed to the framework for an end to hostilities in the region. Most do not believe it will actually be the end of this conflict, just a pause until after the November elections and a period of normalized oil supplies.
Netanyahu refuses to exit Lebanon or cease hostilities with Lebanon. Yesterday Trump convinced Iran not to retaliate against Israel for its renewed attacks on Lebanon. Most believe the Trump/Netanyahu rift is just theater. Iran did not retaliate for now, but there is no question that if the attacks continue they will. Trump does have the leverage to demand compliance from Netanyahu, either by cutting off all offensive weapons to Israel or just pledge to stand back and not participate in Israel's defense if they do not comply. It would be a first for Trump and would go a long way in increasing his credibility.
Below is a summary of the major parts of this agreement, no one has yet seen the most up to date version.
1. Non-aggression treaty for the future.
2. Iran will retain control of Strait.
3. Iran can enrich for commercial purposes.
4. Lifting of Primary sanctions.
5. Lifting of secondary sanctions.
6. Termination of UN security council resolutions condemning Iran.
7. Termination of IAEA resolutions against Iran.
8. Payment of compensation to Iran.
9. Withdrawal of U.S. forces from the region.
10. Cessation of war on all fronts, including in Lebanon.
This is the rough idea of what is being considered, and if a deal is actually signed on Friday, it will begin with opening the strait by both sides, a return of 1/2 the frozen assets of Iran and negotiations to be concluded in the following 60 days. This will concern the nuclear agreement which will be similar to what was part of the original deal from 2015.
Most question the sincerity of the U.S. in all this, feeling it is more about oil prices and political convenience until after the next election. It is a real opportunity for a comprehensive security agreement for the region, if that is what they really want.
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