From the Liveblog of
Friday, April 17, 2026
PM: We’ve begun long road to peace with Lebanon, but fight against Hezbollah not over
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on GoogleLazar Berman is The Times of Israel's diplomatic reporter
The road to peace with Lebanon is long, says Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, “but we have begun.”
“One hand holds a weapon; the other is extended for peace,” says Netanyahu in a video statement defending his decision to accept a 10-day ceasefire with Lebanon.
The line is strikingly similar to one used by former Palestine Liberation Organization chairman Yasser Arafat, who in a 1974 UN General Assembly address said, “I have come bearing an olive branch and a freedom fighter’s gun. Do not let the olive branch fall from my hand.”
At US President Donald Trump’s request, says Netanyahu, “we are giving an opportunity to advance a combined diplomatic and military solution with the Lebanese government.”
But the fight against Hezbollah is not over, Netanyahu insists.
He argues that since October 7, 2023, Israel has removed the threat of Hezbollah infiltration and anti-tank fire, as well as 90% of Hezbollah’s rockets.
“I will say honestly, we have not yet finished the job,” Netanyahu continues. “There are things we plan to do regarding the remaining rocket threat and the drone threat, which I will not detail.”
Israel is also working to “dismantle” Hezbollah, he says, “but this will not be achieved tomorrow. It requires sustained effort, patience, and careful navigation in the diplomatic arena.”
The Times of Israel Community.