Biden says Israel has right to self-defense ‘if Hezbollah or anyone else breaks deal’

Offering some details on the terms of the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, US President Joe Biden says, “What is left of Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations will not be allowed to threaten the security of Israel again.”

Over the next 60 days, the Lebanese army and state security forces will deploy and take control of their own territory in southern Lebanon, Biden says, reiterating that Hezbollah will not be allowed to rebuild its terror infrastructure. During this 60-day period, Israel will gradually withdraw its troops from Lebanon.

The deal will allow civilians on both sides of the Blue Line to return to their homes and rebuild their communities, Biden says.

The president says the US, along with France, is committed to ensuring that the deal is fully implemented, while stressing that this will not require any American troops on the ground.

“If Hezbollah or anyone else breaks the deal and pose a direct threat to Israel, Israel retains the right to self-defense, consistent with international law — just like any country when facing a terrorist group pledged to that country’s destruction,” Biden says.

At the same time, Biden says the deal boosts Lebanon’s sovereignty, allowing the country to put itself on a “path toward a future that’s worthy of a significant past.”