Katz: U.S. Pressure Prevented Hezbollah's Collapse by Linking Lebanon and Iran Fronts

Strategic Friction with Washington

Defense Minister Israel Katz provided a candid assessment of the current strategic landscape, suggesting that Israeli military pressure on Hezbollah was curtailed by diplomatic constraints. According to Katz, the Trump administration's insistence on linking the Lebanese theater with the broader Iranian diplomatic framework prevented the IDF from delivering a knockout blow. Katz claimed that continued strikes on Hezbollah targets in the Dahieh suburb of Beirut, combined with large-scale civilian evacuations, would have led to the organization's practical collapse. "The connection between the arenas is an American interest, and these are the constraints of the partnership with the U.S.," Katz stated, noting that after this shift, Israel ceased the systematic destruction of buildings in Beirut.

Destruction of Terror Infrastructure

Katz presented data regarding "Operation Silver Plow" (מחרשת הכסף), the IDF's effort to dismantle Hezbollah's presence along the border. In the western and central sectors of the contact line, destruction of terror infrastructure has reached nearly 100%. In the eastern sector, the rate stands at approximately 73%. The Defense Minister noted that roughly 200,000 residents of southern Lebanon's "yellow line" security zone will not be returning to their homes. He further detailed that 1.3 million Shiites have been displaced—700,000 from Dahieh and 600,000 from southern villages—many of whom have relocated to Druze and Christian areas.

Long-term Security Posture

Addressing the future of the campaign, Katz emphasized that the IDF is prepared for a long-term stay in Lebanon. He dismissed the notion of further withdrawals beyond designated pilot areas, stating that no further retreat will occur until Hezbollah is fully disarmed. Regarding the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), Katz expressed skepticism, stating he is "not under any illusions" that Lebanese soldiers will aggressively confront Hezbollah. He also confirmed a summary with CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper to maintain IDF security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza. On the Iranian front, Katz noted that the IDF remains ready for an independent operation, dubbed "Operation White-Blue," which could be triggered by Iranian missile fire or a decision by President Trump.