Israeli Defense Minister Rejects Trump’s Suggestion to Withdraw from Lebanon Security Zone

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz responded on Thursday to U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks suggesting that Israel might withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon as part of the framework agreement signed in Washington between Israel and Lebanon. Katz emphasized that Israel never sought permission from any party to enter Lebanon and does not require approval to remain there.

Trump made his comments on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Ankara, stating he believed Israel wanted to pull back its troops and noting the historic agreements being signed between Israel and Lebanon. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio added that the agreement aims to bring the two countries closer while ensuring Israel’s security.

Katz reiterated Israel’s right and duty to protect its northern communities from Hezbollah, which he described as a jihadist terrorist organization intent on destroying Israel. He affirmed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and he would continue to maintain Israel’s presence in the security zone in Lebanon and act from there as necessary until Hezbollah is disarmed and the threat to northern Israel is removed.

Next week, Israel and Lebanon are scheduled to hold a two-day round of talks in Rome to advance the framework agreement, though the meeting may be postponed due to Lebanese President Michel Aoun’s planned visit to Washington on July 21. The U.S. is considering a trilateral meeting between Trump, Netanyahu, and Aoun, but Lebanon opposes a direct meeting with Netanyahu.

According to Israeli security cabinet assessments, Israel’s position is strong, having effectively isolated Iran and gained international legitimacy to remain in the security zone up to 8 to 10 kilometers inside Lebanon. Israel will continue dismantling Hezbollah’s infrastructure there. The IDF plans to hand over two pilot areas to the Lebanese army, but it may take weeks before the Lebanese forces are ready. Israeli officials doubt the Lebanese army’s ability to disarm Hezbollah, indicating Israel will ultimately have to act on its own timetable. Meanwhile, Israel will maintain its presence to protect its northern communities and thoroughly clear the area of threats, a level of control never achieved before.