Katz Says IDF Will Remain in Lebanon Security Zone

Defense Minister Israel Katz responded to the killing of four soldiers in combat in southern Lebanon, saying the IDF will stay in Lebanon's security zone. He said the force will remain there, from the coast to the Beaufort heights, in order to protect communities in northern Israel, prevent threats, and destroy terrorist infrastructure in the area, both above and below ground.

Katz's remarks came after the fatal battle in southern Lebanon in which four fighters were killed. He framed the military presence as part of an ongoing effort to secure Israel's northern border and suppress threats originating from Lebanese territory.

According to Katz, the IDF's mission in the zone is not temporary. He said it will continue to operate across the full area, from the seacoast to the Beaufort ridge, to maintain pressure on hostile infrastructure and safeguard nearby Israeli settlements.