Israeli defense minister says 'no US demand' to withdraw from Lebanon

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz asserted on Wednesday that the United States has not issued any demand for Israel to withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon. This statement addresses a key point of contention in the ongoing ceasefire negotiations, where Lebanon has stipulated such a withdrawal as a prerequisite for any agreement.

The defense minister's remarks come as diplomatic efforts continue to broker a cessation of hostilities. Lebanon's insistence on an Israeli troop pullout from its southern territory remains a significant hurdle in the complex discussions. The U.S. position, as clarified by Katz, suggests a divergence from Lebanon's demands in the context of these negotiations.

Katz's comments highlight the delicate balance of international diplomacy and regional security concerns. While the U.S. has been involved in mediating discussions, its specific demands regarding Israeli troop presence in Lebanon have been clarified by the Israeli defense minister.