Israel Defense Minister Israel Katz says troops will stay in Lebanon and army ready to strike Iran again
Israel’s defence minister, Israel Katz, stated that Israeli forces will remain in southern Lebanon without any external permission until Hezbollah is fully disarmed. He said the security zone – a roughly 10‑km strip along the border – will stay in place to protect northern Israeli communities.
Katz also announced that the Israeli army is on high alert and prepared to resume offensive operations against Iran, including a possible third strike with “even greater force” if the situation requires. The remarks were made at a military graduation ceremony and were echoed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said the Iranian axis is weaker than ever while Israel is stronger than ever.
Both statements came amid renewed U.S.–Iran clashes and ongoing diplomatic talks about a comprehensive peace framework with Lebanon that would be activated once Hezbollah no longer poses a threat.