U.S. Criticizes Katz’s Statement on Extended Israeli Presence in Lebanon

Officials in the U.S. administration criticized overnight (between Wednesday and Thursday) a statement made yesterday by Defense Minister Israel Katz, who said during a tour of southern Lebanon that Israel is preparing for a long-term presence in the area and will not withdraw from southern Lebanon. This was reported by News 12.

According to the report, officials in the Trump administration noted that a permanent Israeli military presence in Lebanon contradicts the framework agreement and the commitments made under it that Israel has no territorial aspirations in Lebanon.

As a reminder, the United States recently emphasized its full support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the State of Lebanon. The U.S. State Department also demanded that “all parties act solely in accordance with the agreed framework.”

As noted, Katz toured southern Lebanon and the Beaufort Ridge, declaring that the IDF is preparing for an extended stay and will not leave the security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza. The defense minister said the move is intended to protect northern communities and ensure that Hezbollah does not rebuild its capabilities in the area.