Israel Won't Withdraw from Lebanon Security Zone Until Hezbollah Disarmed, Says Defense Minister

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced Friday that Israel will not withdraw from the security zone in southern Lebanon until Hezbollah is disarmed throughout the country. The statement followed the completion of a complex operation by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to capture the Ali Taher ridge.

Katz stated that the operation successfully neutralized tunnels used by Hezbollah to launch attacks on Israeli forces and the Galilee region. The Ali Taher ridge was a key command center and a crucial defensive position for Hezbollah overlooking the strategically important Nabatieh area. "The capture of Ali Taher is an important step in achieving the goal," Katz said.

He emphasized that the political leadership's policy remains firm, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and himself leading a clear and uncompromising line. The IDF is executing this policy daily, ensuring that Israel will not retreat from the security zone until the threats to the residents of the Galilee are removed and Hezbollah's weaponry is dismantled across Lebanon.

The IDF has completed the task of securing the ridge, neutralizing the tunnels, and will implement tactical measures to maintain control and prevent the enemy from re-establishing a presence in the area.