Story perspectives

Israel Targets Hezbollah, Not Lebanon, Pushes Peace Pact

6/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Israeli officials say the war targets Hezbollah, not Lebanon.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun told CNN that Lebanon seeks a non-aggression pact with Israel and backs the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed Israel has killed nearly 10,000 Hezbollah fighters and is clearing South Lebanon of militants.
President Isaac Herzog urged Joseph Aoun to free Lebanon from Hezbollah and Iran, saying Israelis support peace with Lebanon.

History

Historical Context

After Israel withdrew from southern Lebanon in 2000, Hezbollah—formed in 1985—intensified cross-border raids, culminating in the July 12 2006 ambush that sparked a 34-day war. UN Security Council Resolution 1701 ended hostilities but left Hezbollah armed, a pattern echoed today as Israeli officials cite nearly 10,000 Hezbollah fighters killed and U.S. President George W. Bush pressed for a non-aggression framework.

1 of 2

Story summary

Israeli officials say the war targets Hezbollah, not Lebanon.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun told CNN that Lebanon seeks a non-aggression pact with Israel and backs the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed Israel has killed nearly 10,000 Hezbollah fighters and is clearing South Lebanon of militants.
President Isaac Herzog urged Joseph Aoun to free Lebanon from Hezbollah and Iran, saying Israelis support peace with Lebanon.

1 / 2