Israel Says Troops Will Stay In Lebanon, Syria, Gaza Indefinitely
Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, has declared that Israeli troops will remain indefinitely in self-proclaimed “security zones” in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza, with no timeline for withdrawal.
Katz made the statement on Wednesday, emphasising that the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) will maintain their presence in these areas to protect Israeli borders and communities from “jihadist elements.”
“The IDF will remain in the security zones in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza indefinitely in order to protect our residents and communities from jihadist elements. We will not withdraw from the security zones,” Katz said.
The minister also reiterated warnings to Iran, stating that any attack on Israel over its operations in Lebanon would be met with “full force.”
This position aligns with earlier remarks by Katz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
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Israel currently controls buffer zones in southern Lebanon following clashes with Hezbollah, parts of southern Syria after the fall of Bashar al-Assad, and significant portions of Gaza.
The development comes amid ongoing regional tensions, including ceasefire agreements involving Lebanon and Gaza, which Israeli officials have said will not lead to immediate troop withdrawals.
Lebanese and Palestinian authorities, along with parts of the international community, view the continued presence as occupation in violation of international law.