ALBAWABA- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz have ruled out a full Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, reaffirming plans to maintain a long-term military presence in what Israel describes as security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza.
Netanyahu said Israeli forces would remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as necessary to safeguard Israel’s security and ensure the safety of communities along its northern border. He also instructed the Israeli military to retain full operational freedom to respond to any existing or emerging threats.
Katz echoed the position, stating that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) would remain in the security zones indefinitely, despite growing international calls for a withdrawal. He said the policy is aimed at protecting Israeli border communities by dismantling militant infrastructure, including underground networks and positions used by armed groups.
According to Israeli officials, the security zones are intended to prevent attacks by groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas and to counter broader regional threats. Katz also warned that Israel would respond forcefully to any actions by Iran that threaten its security interests.
The statements come as Israel, Lebanon, and the United States continue US-mediated talks aimed at stabilizing the border and preventing renewed conflict. A fourth round of negotiations held earlier this month produced a conditional ceasefire framework tied to Hezbollah halting attacks and withdrawing operatives from areas south of the Litani River.
While both Israel and Lebanon have expressed support for continued dialogue and pledged to avoid escalation, implementation of previous ceasefire arrangements has remained fragile, with violations and military operations continuing on both sides.
Israel’s position also appears to challenge wider regional efforts to reduce tensions following recent diplomatic developments involving the United States and Iran. Israeli leaders have insisted that gains achieved during operations against Hezbollah will not be relinquished without long-term security guarantees.
The dispute highlights the ongoing challenges facing diplomatic efforts to secure a lasting settlement along the Israel-Lebanon border, where questions over Israeli troop deployments, Hezbollah’s future role, and regional security arrangements remain unresolved.
