Israel Will Not Withdraw from Lebanon Despite US-Iran Agreement, Says Defense Minister Katz

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that the Israeli army will remain indefinitely in Lebanon, Syria, and the Gaza Strip. The statement came hours after the United States and Iran reached an agreement to end hostilities in the Middle East region.

"Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I are implementing a clear policy that the Israel Defense Forces will remain in security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza for an indefinite period to protect the border and the Israeli communities there from jihadist elements," Katz said in a statement.

The minister stated that local residents will be evacuated from these territories, and all terrorist infrastructure above and below ground will be destroyed, including outposts in border villages used by terrorists.

Holding Territory as an Achievement

Katz emphasized that "holding the territory and maintaining security zones is one of the greatest achievements of the Israel Defense Forces." He added that Israel opposes any pressure to withdraw its army and that Prime Minister Netanyahu has informed US President Donald Trump of this position.

Warning to Iran

The defense minister warned Iran that if it attacks Israel in response to operations in Lebanon, Israel will respond with "full force." "We will not compromise on Israel's core security interests and the protection of our citizens, and we will not abandon the security zones," he declared.

US-Iran Agreement

On Sunday, the US and Iran announced an agreement to end hostilities on multiple fronts, including Lebanon, and to hold further talks on a long-term settlement. The official signing is scheduled for Friday in Switzerland. Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir stated on Monday that the agreement is not binding on Israel and that the country should accept nothing less than the complete defeat of Hezbollah.