Netanyahu Says Israel Must Keep Lebanon Security Buffer as Regional Challenges Remain

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that Israel still faces additional challenges after the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran. Speaking at the inauguration of Highway 60, known as the "Bible Road," he said, "The struggle is not over, and there are additional challenges ahead."

Netanyahu addressed tensions with Washington, saying Israel must act with "calm, firm insistence on our security interests" while preserving "the important relationship with our American friends," whom he praised for fighting alongside Israel "shoulder to shoulder." He added, "We will continue to navigate our path wisely and with judgment" and said Israel would preserve the achievements of the war.

On the northern front, Netanyahu said Israel would restore security to the north by maintaining the security buffer in southern Lebanon. "This requires that we not leave there as long as Israel's security needs require it," he said, adding that the strip separates Hezbollah fighters from Israeli civilians and communities. He also reiterated that Israel's supreme goal remains preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.