Israel warns Lebanon campaign incomplete as 10-day truce begins

From Jerusalem, the campaign against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon is far from over, despite a fragile 10-day truce now in effect. Defense Minister Israel Katz made it unequivocally clear: the mission to clear out Hezbollah militants and weapons from areas near the border remains incomplete. This isn't just about securing our northern communities; it's about ensuring the long-term safety of our citizens.

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The ground manoeuvre into Lebanon and the strikes on Hezbollah have achieved many gains, but they are still not complete.

The return of displaced Lebanese civilians to their homes in the south, while understandable, is premature and potentially dangerous. If hostilities resume, and we reserve the right to act if provoked or if planned attacks are detected, these civilians will be forced to flee once more. Our security zone, extending 10 kilometers into Lebanese territory, will be maintained and further cleared of terrorist infrastructure. This is a necessary measure to protect Israel from the constant threat posed by Hezbollah.

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There remained areas of the south that had not yet been cleared of Hezbollah militants, which would have to happen one way or another.

While the US State Department details Israel's right to target Hezbollah to prevent imminent attacks, the reality on the ground is that Hezbollah's presence remains a clear and present danger. We are committed to neutralizing this threat, whether through diplomatic means or continued IDF operations. The international community must understand that our actions are defensive and aimed at restoring stability to our northern border, a stability that has been shattered by Hezbollah's aggression.

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This will have to be carried out either through diplomatic means or by continued IDF activity once the ceasefire ends.