Israel: No US Demand for Lebanon Withdrawal, Defense Minister Says

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Wednesday that the United States has not issued any demand for Israel to withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon. This statement comes amidst ongoing ceasefire negotiations where Lebanon has stipulated such a withdrawal as a condition.

Katz emphasized Israel's commitment to its presence in the region, stating, "We have announced that in any case we are not withdrawing and, as of this moment - and this is a diplomatic achievement - there is no American demand for Israel to withdraw from Lebanon." He further explained to U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that their presence is solely for the protection of northern Israeli residents.

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We have announced that in any case we are not withdrawing and, as of this moment - and this is a diplomatic achievement - there is no American demand for Israel to withdraw from Lebanon.

Prime Minister Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, reiterating that the Israeli military is not expected to withdraw. "As long as I am Prime Minister, we will maintain the security zone in southern Lebanon - for as long as it is necessary," he said, adding that the army is actively dismantling Hezbollah's ground infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun rejected Israel's occupation of southern Lebanon and what he termed foreign interference, a veiled reference to Iran's influence. This occurred as the fifth round of Israel-Lebanon talks commenced in Washington. Tehran has also stressed that peace in Lebanon is crucial for a broader Middle East settlement with Washington.

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As long as I am Prime Minister, we will maintain the security zone in southern Lebanon - for as long as it is necessary.