Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz Vows to Maintain Security Zone in Lebanon as Needed

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared on Thursday that Israel has not sought permission from any party to enter Lebanon and does not require approval to remain there. Katz emphasized that Israel will continue to operate within the security zone in Lebanon as long as necessary until Hezbollah is disarmed throughout Lebanon and the threat to northern Israeli residents is removed.

His statement followed remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump at the NATO summit in Ankara, where Trump suggested that Israel might withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon and indicated that Israel appeared inclined to take such a step. Katz responded firmly, asserting Israel's right and duty to protect the residents of the Galilee and Israeli citizens against the jihadist terrorist organization Hezbollah, which aims to destroy Israel.

Katz recalled that Hezbollah initiated attacks on Israel twice: after the Hamas attack on October 7 and at the start of the "Roaring Lion" operation in Iran, firing at Israel under orders from the Iranian regime. He noted that over the past two and a half years, Israel has severely weakened Hezbollah's capabilities and leadership, including its chief terrorist Nasrallah, a key figure in plans to destroy Israel.

The Defense Minister described the establishment of a strong security zone in Lebanon, extending from the sea in the west to the Beaufort area and the approaches to Mount Hermon in the east. This zone is free of residents and terrorist infrastructure both above and below ground to protect the Galilee from raids, anti-tank fire, and direct threats. Katz concluded by reaffirming Israel's commitment to the security of northern residents, stating, "We promised security to the residents of the north, and we have delivered and will continue to do so."