Withdrawal cannot be a gesture of faith: US, Israel must align on Lebanon

A stark divergence has emerged between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz concerning Israel's military presence in southern Lebanon. Trump has publicly stated his belief that Israel will withdraw its forces, citing ongoing discussions and a mutual desire to move forward. However, Katz has forcefully rejected this notion, asserting that Israeli troops will remain until Hezbollah is disarmed and emphasizing that Israel requires no external permission to maintain its presence.

This disagreement transcends mere messaging, touching upon critical issues such as the future of Israel's northern border, the fate of Hezbollah, Lebanese sovereignty, and the integrity of the U.S.-Israel alliance. The editorial highlights Israel's historical skepticism regarding promises related to Lebanon, noting how international arrangements have failed to prevent Hezbollah's entrenchment and armament along the border.

The article contends that Israel cannot revert to pre-war conditions, and no Israeli government can responsibly ask its northern residents to return home based on assurances that Hezbollah will eventually be disarmed. Defense Minister Katz's stance that withdrawal cannot be a "gesture of faith" but must follow verifiable changes on the ground is supported. However, the editorial criticizes Katz's "needlessly confrontational" formulation, particularly his dismissive attitude toward the United States, Israel's most crucial ally and mediator in regional security arrangements.

Furthermore, the piece advises President Trump against announcing an Israeli withdrawal before it has been agreed upon by Israel. While acknowledging the U.S. may be eager to advance a broader regional settlement, it stresses that Israel, not Washington, will bear the immediate consequences if Hezbollah re-establishes itself along the border. The editorial calls for a more aligned approach, suggesting that strategic independence does not necessitate publicly dismissing key allies.

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We did not ask anyone’s permission to enter Lebanon, and we do not need permission to stay in Lebanon