Israeli Defense Minister Affirms Commitment to Security Zones in Syria, Gaza, and Lebanon

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz spoke with U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to reaffirm Israel's determination to maintain security zones in Syria, Gaza, and Lebanon. Katz emphasized that Israel's presence in these areas is crucial to protecting its borders and communities from jihadist threats. He clarified that Israel has never requested the United States to act on its behalf along its borders, stating, "We are committed to defending the residents of Israel against any threat." This conversation followed remarks by President Donald Trump regarding a possible Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon and Syria.