IDF withdrawal from Lebanon would be a failure, minister says

An IDF withdrawal from Lebanon beyond the current "yellow line" would constitute a failure, according to Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli. In an interview with 103FM, Chikli firmly stated that retreating to the "blue line" is unacceptable and stressed the importance of maintaining strategic positions within Lebanese territory.

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If we withdraw from the yellow line, I will be the first to say that we failed. I say that clearly, without hesitation. If we retreat back to the blue line, that will be a failure in my eyes.

"We must not again defend Metula from an outpost that is inside Metula," Chikli said, drawing a parallel to the situation in the Gaza Strip. He clarified that while Israel doesn't need to hold every area, securing key strategic points is crucial. "Our forces are deep inside the territory... but we need to make sure we are positioned at those strategic points within Lebanese territory."

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One thing is clear and simple, as is happening in the Gaza Strip. We must not again defend Metula from an outpost that is inside Metula.

Chikli also voiced strong criticism regarding the ongoing negotiations with Iran, particularly concerning the involvement of Qatar, Turkey, and Pakistan in the emerging agreement. He described this axis as "dangerous, radical Sunni axis of evil." The minister expressed concern that President Trump's administration might be influenced by Qatar and Turkey, noting a "blind spot" regarding Erdogan's motivations. He also criticized Trump's envoys, Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, for their role in shaping what he believes is a detrimental deal for Israel.

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The emerging agreement is troubling. Less troubling to me than the rebuilding of Iran’s economy is the axis that drafted the agreement: Qatar, Turkey, and Pakistan. What we are seeing before our eyes is the rise of a new axis, a dangerous, radical Sunni axis of evil like no other.