Israeli Defense Minister Katz Affirms Israel Will Maintain Security Zone in Lebanon Despite Trump Comments

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz clarified on Thursday that Israel has no intention of withdrawing from the security zone in Lebanon, countering U.S. President Donald Trump's recent statement suggesting Israel might pull back. Katz emphasized that Israel never sought permission from any party to enter Lebanon and does not require approval to remain there. He stated it is Israel's right and duty to protect the residents of the Galilee and Israeli citizens against threats from the jihadist terrorist group Hezbollah, which aims to destroy Israel.

Katz noted that Hezbollah initiated two attacks on Israel: one following Hamas's October 7 attack and another at the start of the "Roaring Lion" operation in Iran, with Hezbollah firing on Israel under Iranian regime orders. He added that over the past two and a half years, Israel has severely damaged Hezbollah's capabilities and leadership, including its chief terrorist Nasrallah, who is central to plans to destroy Israel.

The defense minister credited the political leadership, IDF command, soldiers' bravery, and northern residents' resilience for establishing a security zone in Lebanon stretching from the Mediterranean coast in the west to the Bofor complex and Hermon approaches in the east. This zone is free of residents and terrorist infrastructure above and below ground, designed to protect Galilee inhabitants from raids, anti-tank fire, and direct threats.

Katz concluded by reaffirming Israel's commitment to maintaining the security zone. He quoted himself and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating Israel will remain in the zone and operate from it as needed until Hezbollah is disarmed throughout Lebanon and the threat to northern residents is eliminated. "We promised security to the residents of the north, and we have delivered and will continue to do so," he said.