Defense Minister Israel Katz rejected claims that the IDF’s freedom of action in Lebanon is limited, saying there was and is "no restriction" on Israeli soldiers operating there to remove threats. He said the ceasefire announced yesterday leaves the IDF in all positions inside the security zone that protects communities in northern Israel.
Katz added that protecting the lives of Israeli soldiers and civilians is the "absolute top priority." He said this position was made clear by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and himself, and stressed that "Israel will not withdraw from the security zone in Lebanon."