IDF Chief Calls Lebanon Ceasefire Agreement Historic but Warns Future Depends on Both Sides

Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Ayal Zamir addressed the ceasefire agreement signed with Lebanon for the first time, emphasizing its historic significance while cautioning that the upcoming period will determine its success. Zamir visited the Northern Command and the 36th Division on Sunday morning to assess troop readiness following the new ceasefire arrangement with Beirut. During the visit, he held a special situation assessment, approved ongoing operational plans, and engaged with commanders deployed along the contact line. Accompanying him were Northern Command Chief Major General Rafi Milo, 36th Division Commander Brigadier General Yiftah Nurkin, and Operations Division Head Brigadier General Barak Hiram.

Zamir credited the agreement to the aggressive military operations conducted by the IDF in recent months, stating, "The operational strength and military achievements of the IDF created the conditions for this." He affirmed Israel's commitment to respecting and ensuring the success of the agreement but stressed that the real test lies in the actions of both parties. He warned that the IDF remains fully prepared to shift immediately from defense to overwhelming offense, not only against Hezbollah in Lebanon but also against its patron, Iran.

Highlighting the current operational control, Zamir said, "The fighters of the 36th Division and our commando units dominate the Bofor Ridge area, equipped with all necessary tools to overcome the enemy. Hezbollah is weakened, its operatives confined underground. The IDF maintains operational control and high alert to deliver rapid and lethal strikes if the ceasefire is violated." He concluded by stating that the Northern Command is now the IDF's focal point and that forces are ready to resume fighting swiftly in Lebanon and Iran if required.