Defense Minister Katz Slams "Hack" Commentators, Vows No IDF Withdrawal from Security Zones
Defense Minister Israel Katz launched a sharp attack on commentators and journalists on Monday, accusing them of distorting Israel's security policy. Katz asserted that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will maintain its presence in security zones established beyond Israel's borders in the north and south, emphasizing that troops will not withdraw from the security zone in Lebanon until Hezbollah is disarmed throughout the country.
"I see waves of attacks and distortions in the media regarding the security policy of the State of Israel," Katz stated. He alleged that some critics, whom he termed "hack commentators" (חלטוריסטים), use the title of "commentator" for personal and financial gain, disseminating false information to serve various interests. Katz also criticized veteran journalists, including former field reporters, suggesting they seek to appease media outlets to preserve their status, even when their reporting falls short of proper journalistic standards.
However, Katz acknowledged the existence of honest journalists who, regardless of their political views, adhere to serious, fact-based reporting. Regarding security policy, Katz affirmed his commitment to leading the "Magen Yisrael" (Shield of Israel) program, in coordination with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the IDF. This program aims to protect Israel's borders and communities in the north and south from radical Islamic organizations. As part of this initiative, robust security zones have been established beyond Israel's borders, intended to be free of residents and terrorist infrastructure, a measure he described as a key lesson from the October 7th Hamas attack.
Katz also declared that Iran is weakened and deterred, and would be struck if it attacked. He assured residents of the north and south that they are "protected and secure as we promised." This statement follows his ministry's announcement on Sunday regarding IDF preparations on the Ali Taher ridge in southern Lebanon, after completing operations to destroy Hezbollah's underground terrorist infrastructure and eliminate operatives in the area. Katz reiterated that the IDF will remain in control of the ridge and prevent any attempts by Hezbollah or others to re-establish a presence there, warning that anyone approaching the area would be eliminated.
He described the Israeli security zone in Lebanon as spanning approximately 700 square kilometers, extending from the coast to the Beaufort Castle and the Mount Hermon area. "We are not moving from the security zone," Katz declared. "The IDF will not withdraw or redeploy until Hezbollah is disarmed throughout Lebanon." He added that the IDF will continue to operate forcefully in the area, thwarting terrorists and destroying underground and above-ground terrorist infrastructure, and that any threat to the forces would be removed "from anywhere."
