Katz: Iran prevented Hezbollah's collapse, Israel pursues 'Plan B'

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz asserted on Monday that Iran's actions, prompted by a U.S. demand, prevented the potential "collapse" of Hezbollah. Katz stated that linking the Lebanese and Iranian arenas to serve U.S. interests was a direct result of Iranian influence, which ultimately altered Israel's strategic approach.

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there would be no withdrawal from the security zones in Lebanon, Syria and the Gaza Strip.

Following these developments and facing U.S. restrictions on attacking other parts of Lebanon, Katz indicated that Israel has moved to "Plan B." This plan involves reinforcing the Yello Line in southern Lebanon. He also claimed to have reached an agreement with U.S. Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper, ensuring no withdrawal from security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza.

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there would be no further withdrawals after withdrawal from the two pilot zones in south Lebanon until Hezbollah is disarmed.

Katz emphasized that Israel would not engage in further withdrawals from these security zones until Hezbollah is disarmed. He expressed skepticism about the Lebanese Army's ability to confront Hezbollah independently, stating, "Lebanese Army soldiers will not suddenly transform into lions to attack Hezbollah." The minister concluded by affirming that the Israeli army's presence in southern Lebanon is intended to be long-term.

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Lebanese Army soldiers will not suddenly transform into lions to attack Hezbollah.