Israel Won't Withdraw from Lebanon Security Zone Without Northern Defense Deal

An Israeli security official stated that the IDF will not withdraw from the security zone in southern Lebanon until a deal is reached to ensure strong protection for northern Israeli communities. The official, speaking to JDN News, also indicated that Israel is preparing for Iranian attempts to deepen Tehran's involvement in Lebanon and tie its fate to Hezbollah's. "We will not allow this and will continue to maintain full freedom of action for ourselves," the source emphasized.

The security source explained that the IDF has shifted its defense concept over the past three years, operating in forward buffer zones beyond the border lines in Syria, Gaza, and Lebanon, and also within refugee camps in the West Bank. "We are currently in three forward buffer zones in Syria, Gaza, and Lebanon. We are sitting in the heart of refugee camps in Judea and Samaria," the source said, adding that the military stance is that withdrawal from the security zone is not currently feasible without a strong defense arrangement for the settlements.

Another senior security official told JDN News that Israel's military situation in Lebanon is good, with few terrorists and tunnels remaining between the Blue Line and the Yellow Line, and the IDF controlling a vast area up to ten kilometers deep. "We hold a forward line and a vast area of up to ten kilometers," the official stated, while noting, "I always assess that the enemy wants to harm me and remain prepared."

Recent IDF activity in Lebanon has been intense, with 90 targets attacked and 13 terrorists eliminated in the past month. Hezbollah recently launched two explosive drones toward IDF forces on the Ali Taher ridge, one of which was intercepted. In response, the IDF struck Hezbollah infrastructure in the Nabatieh area. The security source dismissed reports of Iranian officers on the Ali Taher ridge as "rumor" but affirmed that the IDF would continue operating in the area to prevent Hezbollah from launching terror attacks.

Regarding the Lebanese army, the security establishment observes a shift in its stance towards Hezbollah, though fear of internal conflict still limits its actions. "Behind the scenes, you see that the Lebanese army is more eager than before to act against Hezbollah," the source said, adding, "We expect it to act more, but it greatly fears a civil war."

The Lebanese army is piloting operations in two areas to expand state control and reduce Hezbollah's influence, but success metrics have not yet been established. European Union foreign ministers have announced that over ten EU countries are ready to provide resources and personnel for a new mission to advise and train the Lebanese armed forces, aiming to help them dismantle Hezbollah's weaponry and extend government control. France is also working to convene an international conference to bolster the Lebanese army and internal security forces.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with the US Ambassadors to Lebanon and Israel to discuss security arrangements. Meanwhile, Lebanese President Michel Aoun met with his Foreign Minister and Interior Minister to discuss UNIFIL's future and international support for the Lebanese army. Aoun has previously stated that the official armed forces must confront both the Israeli presence in Lebanon and weapons outside state control, advocating for a full Israeli withdrawal and sole Lebanese military control over the country.