Israeli Defense Minister Credits Trump’s Pressure for Hezbollah’s Survival Amid Northern Front Tensions

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that U.S. President Donald Trump’s insistence on linking Iranian and Lebanese theaters prevented Hezbollah from collapsing. Katz explained that without this strategic move, Hezbollah would have suffered a blow severe enough to cause its disintegration. Speaking on Monday, Katz outlined the security situation on Israel’s northern border and other fronts, emphasizing Israel’s intent to shape a new security reality in Lebanon.

Katz clarified that beyond two pilot withdrawal zones, Israel will not retreat further in Lebanon until Hezbollah is disarmed. He stressed Israel has no territorial ambitions in Lebanon but will not withdraw an inch until Hezbollah relinquishes its weapons. Katz referenced a recent meeting with U.S. Central Command’s Admiral Brad Cooper, confirming Israel’s commitment to holding three security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza.

He attributed the northern conflict’s outbreak to Hezbollah’s decision to join fighting under heavy Iranian pressure, aiming to create a new balance with Israel. Katz said that after Trump connected the Iranian and Lebanese arenas, Israel ceased bombing buildings in Beirut, marking a shift to deepening control along the Blue Line in southern Lebanon. He recounted multiple phone calls between Prime Minister Netanyahu and Trump before a breakthrough that led to Hezbollah strengthening its presence in southern Lebanon.

Katz described Israel’s ongoing operations in southern Lebanon, including destroying tunnels with large explosives, and stated that while Israel captured the Ali Taher ridge due to tunnel threats, there is no plan to seize Nabatieh without mobilizing additional divisions. The goal remains to clear the Litani area of Hezbollah operatives and weapons. He noted that nearly all villages near the northern border have been destroyed, with 73% of homes in the eastern sector demolished, and that 200,000 residents have not returned due to security concerns.

Regarding Iran, Katz warned that renewed hostilities could erupt either by Trump’s decision or Iranian missile fire, possibly imminently. He said the Israeli military is prepared for independent operations in Iran but will not interfere with U.S. diplomatic efforts. Katz also highlighted that Iran’s threat to Israel extends beyond missile attacks to potential invasion scenarios, justifying Israel’s insistence on maintaining security zones despite international pressure.

On the possibility of regime change in Tehran, Katz cautiously acknowledged it as a desired outcome Israel hoped for but said external factors prevented it from materializing, despite Mossad’s preparations.