Israeli Defense Minister Vows No Withdrawal from Lebanon Without Hezbollah Disarmament

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Katz declared during a visit to southern Lebanon that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) currently control 700 square kilometers of Lebanese territory, stretching from the Mediterranean coast to the Bofor area and the outskirts of Mount Hermon. Katz emphasized that Israel will not withdraw from this security zone until Hezbollah is fully disarmed and the threat it poses is eliminated throughout Lebanon. He described the area as devoid of civilians, with IDF forces present and Hezbollah's terror infrastructure destroyed both above and below ground.

Katz highlighted a shift in Israel’s military doctrine toward decisive victory and threat removal, aligning with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security approach. He referenced the lessons learned from the October 7 attacks and stressed the IDF’s role in protecting Israel’s borders and communities against jihadist threats from Syria, Gaza, and Lebanon.

Regarding future political arrangements, Katz expressed hope for a peace agreement with Lebanon that excludes Hezbollah and establishes recognized, secure borders. However, he reiterated that Israel’s current stance is firm: no withdrawal without Hezbollah’s disarmament. Katz also addressed the situation in the West Bank, affirming Israel’s permanent presence there and the return of communities uprooted from the area, which he described as the historic homeland of the Jewish people.

Katz concluded by affirming Israel’s commitment to security for northern residents and the readiness of the IDF to maintain a prolonged presence in Lebanon until the stated objectives are achieved.