Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Wednesday that Israeli forces will remain in what he described as “security zones” in Lebanon, Syria, and the Gaza Strip, without providing a timetable for withdrawal.
“The Israeli military will remain in the security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza until further notice, in order to protect our residents and communities from jihadist elements,” Katz said.
He emphasized that Israel would not withdraw from these security areas.
Katz also renewed his warning to Tehran, stating that Iran would face forceful retaliation if it attacked Israeli forces operating in Lebanon.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had said on Tuesday that Israeli troops would remain in Lebanon as long as Hezbollah continues to pose a threat to residents of northern Israel.
Israeli leaders have repeatedly stated that military forces will not withdraw until Hezbollah is disarmed in Lebanon.
The regional conflict expanded into Lebanon on March 2, when Hezbollah launched rockets following the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei during the opening day of the U.S.-Israeli offensive on February 28. Israel responded with extensive airstrikes and a ground operation in southern Lebanon, resulting in approximately 4,300 deaths, according to Lebanon’s Ministry of Health.
On the Israeli side, 38 soldiers and one civilian contractor were reported killed.
In Syria, Israel expanded its military deployment in the south, including the Mount Hermon area and locations beyond the buffer zone, following the fall of the government of Bashar al-Assad in 2024.
In Gaza, Israel controls roughly 70% of the territory and has continued military strikes despite a ceasefire agreement.
AFP
