Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has outlined conditions for withdrawing troops from southern Lebanon. He stated that Israeli forces will not leave until Hezbollah is disarmed.
According to Oxu.Az, Katz made the remarks while commenting on a framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon. He described the deal as a historic security achievement.
"The key principle is that Israeli forces will not withdraw until Hezbollah is disarmed throughout Lebanon and the security of residents in northern Israel is ensured," the minister said.
Katz also noted that Israel has not withdrawn its troops and maintains a security zone in southern Lebanon, including the Beaufort Ridge. The IDF retains freedom of action to prevent attacks on soldiers and communities in northern Israel.
According to Katz, the agreement is a "strategic blow" to Iran, which sought to force Israel's withdrawal. He added that Lebanon's future will no longer be determined by Iran and Hezbollah, and that any Iranian attempt to disrupt the deal would be met with "great force."
