Israel sets no timetable for troop withdrawal from Lebanon, Gaza, Syria

Israel has indicated that it has no set timeline for withdrawing its troops from Lebanon, Gaza, and Syria. Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the Israeli military must remain in a "security zone" in these areas indefinitely to protect citizens from "jihadist elements."

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We must remain in the security zone in Lebanon, in Syria, and in Gaza, and not for a limited time, in order to defend our residents and communities from there against jihadist elements.

Katz emphasized opposition to any withdrawal from the security zone in Lebanon, despite existing and anticipated pressures. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, asserting that troops would stay in southern Lebanon "as long as necessary" and granting the army "full freedom of action."

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We oppose the withdrawal of IDF (Israeli army) forces from the security zone in Lebanon, despite all the pressures that exist and those still to come.

Government spokesman David Mencer clarified that forces would not leave southern Lebanon as long as Hezbollah poses a threat and remains disarmed and demilitarized. He noted that any redeployment of forces would only occur after Hezbollah's demilitarization.

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I have made it clear to the IDF (army): you have full freedom of action.

Meanwhile, U.S.-brokered talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials are continuing in Washington. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested that both nations are nearing a "commitment of intent." The ongoing negotiations aim to address security concerns along the border.

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We will not withdraw our forces from southern Lebanon as long as Hezbollah remains a threat, are not disarmed and are not demilitarized.