Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the 24th (local time) criticized Hezbollah, the Iran-backed armed faction in Lebanon, for obstructing peace talks between Israel and Lebanon.
Netanyahu released a video message just before the Sabbath and said, "We promised to reshape the Middle East, and that is exactly what we are doing."
He then referred to ambassador-level peace talks with Lebanon held at the White House a day earlier under U.S. mediation, criticizing Hezbollah for obstructing them.
Netanyahu said, "Israel and Lebanon have begun a process to achieve historic peace. But it is clear that Hezbollah is trying to sabotage it."
He added that although there is a cease-fire, invoking the right to self-defense to punish Hezbollah's provocations is an exception. He said, "We struck (Hezbollah) yesterday and today," adding, "We will reestablish security to ensure the safe return of residents in northern Israel."
Netanyahu also mentioned a recent phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump, saying they discussed in depth Iran and the cease-fire situation in Lebanon.
He said, "I had an excellent conversation with President Trump," adding, "He is exerting very strong economic and military pressure on Iran, and we are cooperating fully."