US Rejects Israeli Defense Minister's Claim of Permanent Military Presence in South Lebanon

The Trump administration has criticized Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz's recent statement asserting that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will maintain a permanent presence in southern Lebanon. A senior US State Department official emphasized that such a permanent Israeli military presence contradicts the commitments Israel made under the framework agreement with the United States and Lebanon. The official reiterated that Israel has clearly stated it holds no territorial ambitions in Lebanon and that a lasting military presence in southern Lebanon is inconsistent with the framework agreement and the long-term peace and security of both countries.

The US official also affirmed America's full support for Lebanon's territorial integrity and sovereignty. The framework agreement outlines a phased redeployment of the IDF contingent, contingent upon Hezbollah's disarmament and the verified destruction of its infrastructure. The Lebanese Armed Forces are currently implementing initial pilot zones, with the US committed to supporting the full execution of this process.

In contrast, Katz, during a tour in southern Lebanon, declared that the IDF's presence in the security zone will continue indefinitely. He stated, "The IDF is here to stay in the security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza to protect the entire State of Israel." Katz instructed the IDF to prepare for a long-term deployment, affirming that neither he nor Prime Minister Netanyahu intend to withdraw from the security zone. This stance directly conflicts with the US position and the framework agreement's terms.