Netanyahu Says Israel Will Keep Security Buffer in Lebanon

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said at a press conference, in response to a question from ynet, that Israel has established a security buffer zone in Lebanon and will remain there as long as needed. He described it as a “security area” that Israel created for its own protection.

Netanyahu added that Iran had wanted Israel to withdraw from that area, but “that did not happen.” He said the outcome reflected his firm stance, saying he was “very, very resolute” and “very, very determined.”

He also said he believes Israel’s American allies respect that position. The remarks were brief and focused on Israel’s continued presence in the buffer zone and his view that outside pressure, including from Iran, had not forced a pullout.