Israel refuses to withdraw from Lebanon despite US-Iran peace deal
What's the story
Israel will not withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon, Defense Minister Israel Katz has announced. The decision comes despite a ceasefire between the United States and Iran, which also calls for the "immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon." "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I are leading a clear policy that determines....the IDF will remain in the security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza, without any time limit, to protect...against jihadist elements," Katz said.
Zone clearance
IDF's greatest achievement in the war: Katz
Katz also announced plans to clear security zones of local residents and all terror infrastructure. This includes demolishing houses in contact-line villages that have been used as terror outposts. He called holding onto these security zones one of the IDF's greatest achievements in the war, adding that Israel will not compromise on its security interests or citizens' protection.
Strike warning
Iran's potential attack on Israel
Katz also warned that if Iran attacks Israel due to developments in Lebanon, Israel will retaliate with full force. He said, "We are committed only to our citizens and to the security of the State of Israel." This is the first statement from an Israeli leader regarding the ceasefire that was announced on Sunday night.
Pakistan
Pakistan to host US-Iran deal signing in Geneva
Pakistan, which has been mediating between the two sides, said it will host the signing ceremony of the peace deal in Geneva on Friday. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had announced early Monday that the US and Iran had reached an agreement following intensive negotiations, with both nations declaring an immediate and permanent end to military operations across all fronts. Confirming, US President Donald Trump said he had authorized the opening of Hormuz and the immediate removal of the naval blockade.