Israeli Defense Minister Katz Orders Long-Term IDF Presence in Lebanon Security Zone

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Katz visited southern Lebanon on Wednesday, declaring that Israel will maintain a long-term military presence in the security zones it controls in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza. During his visit to the Bofor Ridge area overlooking southern Lebanon and northern Israeli communities, Katz received briefings from IDF commanders and spoke with soldiers, emphasizing that the military presence is part of a broader security concept developed after the October 7 attacks.

Katz stated he instructed the IDF to prepare for an extended deployment in the area, underscoring that Israel has no intention of withdrawing from these security zones. He highlighted the strategic importance of controlling these border areas to protect Israeli towns, saying, "We are here to defend the northern communities and our forces, to cleanse this area and ensure the security of northern residents." Katz cited the destruction of Hezbollah tunnels in Bofor Ridge during Operation Valor as a key example of Israel's efforts to neutralize threats before they reach Israeli territory.

The defense minister linked this policy directly to lessons learned from the October 7 attacks, stressing that Israel’s defense strategy involves proactive military action beyond its borders to prevent incursions and attacks. Katz also confirmed ongoing IDF operations to demolish Hezbollah’s underground infrastructure and homes used for terrorist activities, which are supported by Iran. He concluded by reaffirming Israel’s commitment to preventing jihadist threats from endangering its citizens or borders, stating, "We are here on the high ground, they are below, the residents are outside, the soldiers are inside, and the houses are destroyed."