Israel will not vacate occupied territories in Lebanon, Syria: Netanyahu
What's the story
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that Israeli forces will continue to occupy Lebanese and Syrian territories. This announcement comes despite a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, which is linked to these hostilities. Netanyahu said at a press conference on Monday that Israel's military presence in Lebanon, where it occupies approximately 570 square kilometers of land, will remain for as long as necessary.
Ongoing conflict
Israel has been at war with Hezbollah since October 2023
Israel has been at war with the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah since October 2023. The conflict with Hezbollah, which Iran backs, has claimed over 3,000 lives. Netanyahu's comments are likely to put additional strain on a fragile ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran. The agreement is set to be signed on Friday and reportedly includes provisions for an "immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon."
Expanded occupation
Israel's military operations have extended beyond the Litani River
Israel's military operations have extended beyond the Litani River in southern Lebanon, which was the official endpoint of its self-declared "security zone." Netanyahu said Israel would continue to target "Iran's terror arms" and remain vigilant against Iran. On Sunday, Israel launched a strike on Beirut's suburbs, killing three people. This attack was seen as crossing one of Iran's red lines regarding the US deal.
Security interests
Netanyahu has been criticized by Israeli opposition and right-wing factions
Netanyahu has been criticized by Israeli opposition and right-wing factions within the Knesset for not preventing the US-Iran deal. He admitted to having differences with US President Donald Trump but maintained that Israel's war with Iran was a victory for the country. "Iran will never have nuclear weapons, not today and not tomorrow... We beheaded the leaders of the terror regime, we crushed the terror factories," he said at the press conference.
Military support
Defense Minister supports Netanyahu's decision
Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, also supported Netanyahu's decision to keep Israeli forces in the occupied territories. Katz said they are pursuing a policy of maintaining the Israeli army in security zones without a time limit to protect Israel's borders from "jihadist elements." "We oppose the withdrawal of the Israeli army from Lebanon, despite all current and future pressures," he added.