Katz: IDF will stay in Lebanon, Syria, Gaza security zones 'until further notice'

Defense Minister Israel Katz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited southern Lebanon on Wednesday, where they articulated a firm policy regarding Israel's strategic buffer zones. Katz emphasized that the IDF will not withdraw and will remain in security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza "indefinitely" to protect Israeli residents and communities from jihadist elements. This stance reinforces a consistent message from the defense establishment in recent weeks, framing the maintenance of these zones as a critical lesson from the events of October 7. Katz noted that Israel must not wait for threats to reach its borders, but rather maintain a proactive presence within these security strips.

During the visit, Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, stating that the "Lebanese envelope" is now effectively inside Lebanon, just as the Gaza envelope is managed from within Gaza. While the leadership signaled a commitment to these security zones, Netanyahu also mentioned that Israeli representatives have held negotiations with Lebanon, expressing a long-term hope for a peace agreement between the two nations. However, the immediate priority remains the prevention of terror infrastructure, such as tunnels, from being rebuilt near Israel's borders. The Defense Minister also issued a direct warning to Tehran, stating that Israel has struck Iran twice and is prepared to do so a third time if necessary, as the regional contest with the Iranian regime and its proxies continues.