Israeli Ambassador in Washington Says Israel Will Stay in Lebanon Until Hezbollah Is Disarmed

Yehiel Leiter, Israel's ambassador to the United States and head of the Israeli delegation in negotiations with Lebanon, spoke to CBS about the ongoing talks and the security situation in southern Lebanon. Leiter emphasized that the primary goal of the negotiations is to completely remove Iranian and Hezbollah influence from Lebanon, stating that neither Iran nor Hezbollah should have a presence there. He said Israel and Lebanon share a common interest in keeping Hezbollah out to ensure both countries' security and sovereignty.

Regarding Israel's military presence in the security zone in southern Lebanon, Leiter explained that Israel is prepared to withdraw once Hezbollah is disarmed. However, if Hezbollah remains armed, Israel will maintain its position to prevent threats to its citizens from Iranian-backed groups launching attacks or building tunnels, similar to Hamas's actions on October 7.

Leiter also addressed delays in the pilot program for Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, clarifying that the process is not stalled but contingent on cooperation with the Lebanese army and the removal of Hezbollah from the designated areas. If the pilot zones are ready to be handed over to the Lebanese army, Israel will proceed with withdrawal; if not, Israel will remain in place to maintain security.

These statements highlight Israel's firm stance on security in Lebanon and its insistence on Hezbollah's disarmament as a precondition for any military withdrawal.