Katz Says Israel Will Stay in Security Zones in Lebanon, Syria, Gaza and Samaria

Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Friday that Israel will not withdraw from security zones in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza, and that Israeli forces will keep defending the borders. He added that the country’s security concept is clear, to confront threats close and far, seek decisive outcomes rather than compromises, and remain committed to a tough security policy.

Katz said the remarks came amid talks between the United States and Iran. He said President Donald Trump is working toward a deal based on American interests, which also align with Israel’s interest in preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. Israel, he said, expects Washington to insist on that principle, as well as on limits regarding missiles and terror proxies.

The minister said Israel and the United States have already dealt Iran severe blows that have set its capabilities back years. He stressed that Israel must ensure it can act independently in the future to stop Iran from going nuclear, and said he and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have ordered the IDF to prepare accordingly.

Katz said Israeli troops will continue operating from Mount Hermon, the Lebanese hills, parts of Judea and Samaria, and most of Gaza, citing the October 7 attacks as the central lesson. He also said forces will not withdraw from terror camps in northern Samaria that have been evacuated, and that the campaign could be expanded to additional camps if needed. Katz thanked the IDF command and soldiers for what he called their heroic war.