Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz has declared that Israeli forces will remain in southern Lebanon despite international pressure and a recently agreed ceasefire with Hezbollah.
Katz ruled out any withdrawal, arguing that previous security arrangements had left Israeli troops vulnerable to attacks.
“We are not withdrawing,” he said unequivocally.
The minister added: “What happened in the past in security zones, where there was also a civilian population [present] was roadside bombs and attacks against the soldiers, and therefore we will not allow that.”
He further stated: “200,000 residents will not return,” referring to Lebanese civilians displaced by Israeli operations.
Katz’s comments come shortly after reports of a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, brokered with involvement from the United States, Qatar and Iran. The truce took effect last Friday following renewed exchanges of fire.
A senior US official confirmed the agreement, saying both sides had accepted the deal after mediation efforts.
The hardening stance signals Israel’s determination to maintain a military presence in the area amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border.
