Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made it clear on Thursday that his country’s military will not retreat from southern Lebanon, despite directives from the recent U.S.-Iran peace agreement that suggest otherwise.
Netanyahu emphasized that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) should stay put in southern Lebanon to counter Hezbollah, and the military has provided new maps indicating an expansion of occupied areas, which could jeopardize the peace initiative.
“We need to ensure security and prosperity in the northern villages,” Netanyahu told the press. “To do this, a secure zone in southern Lebanon is essential.”
He further explained, “Our presence there will continue as long as it’s necessary for Israel’s security.”
The IDF’s updated operational map reveals Israeli forces extending nine miles into Lebanon, especially in regions north of the Litani River.
In a statement, the military mentioned, “IDF troops are entrenched in southern Lebanon, actively working to remove threats and enhance the safety of the northern population.”
A source close to Netanyahu informed Reuters that Israel is engaged in “intensive discussions” with the United States about military strategies and expanding its presence in Lebanon.
Despite the U.S.-Iran agreement promoting a halt to hostilities, both Israel and Hezbollah have been involved in ongoing clashes.
The IDF’s maneuvers appear to contradict the conditions laid out in the memorandum signed by President Trump with Iran, which emphasizes respect for Lebanon’s sovereignty and the cessation of hostilities.
Iranian officials stressed that if the fighting continues and Israel remains in Lebanon, it will breach the ceasefire and weaken the peace arrangement.
This situation has led to some tension between Trump and Netanyahu, especially as exchanges of fire continue in southern Lebanon. Recently, Hezbollah even executed a drone strike that resulted in casualties among soldiers.
