Senator doubts Israel seeks to block U.S.-Iran deal

A Republican senator said Sunday she doubts Israel is trying to block an emerging agreement between the U.S. and Iran. Sen. Deb Fischer stated during a Fox News interview that Israel is defending its country and its people. She added that Israel understands the need for a secure area in the Straits and the removal of Iran's nuclear program.

Strikes and statements Israeli forces carried out strikes near Beirut on Sunday in response to continued Hezbollah attacks, according to a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz. The strikes occurred hours after President Trump signaled that a peace deal between the U.S. and Iran would be signed Sunday.

Fischer said Israel has a right to defend itself against Hezbollah disruptions and bombings in northern Israel. She added that she doubts Israel is attempting to scuttle any deal.

Ceasefire context As part of the original U.S.-Iran ceasefire agreement, all fighting in Lebanon and Iran would be temporarily paused during talks. Israel has continued strikes on Hezbollah, prompting Iran to accuse the U.S. of violating the ceasefire.

Two weeks earlier, Israel signed a ceasefire agreement with Lebanon but did not agree to withdraw and said it would jointly target Hezbollah. President Trump wrote on Truth Social that the process should work out quickly and that an alternative exists if it does not.