Israeli Defence Minister Confirms Troops Will Stay Indefinitely in Lebanon Buffer Zone
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz declared that Israeli troops will remain indefinitely in a buffer zone at the Lebanon border, asserting that this presence is dependent on the situation, not a specific time frame. This announcement follows Lebanon’s demands for the withdrawal of Israeli forces, established under a ceasefire agreement last year.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced on Thursday that Israeli troops will remain indefinitely in a buffer zone along the border with Lebanon. This announcement is contingent upon the current situation in the region rather than a fixed timeline. Katz emphasized the necessity of their presence, declaring that a strong stance had been taken, and support had been secured from the United States regarding this deployment.
The decision follows a recent call from Lebanon for the withdrawal of Israeli forces, which was made under a ceasefire established late last year. Katz affirmed the situation-dependent nature of this military presence and asserted that they are prepared to maintain it as long as necessary.
“There is a buffer zone (on the border with Lebanon), it wasn’t easy but I stood my ground, and we received a green light from the United States,” Katz stated. He highlighted the importance of the strategic map provided to the U.S. that underpinned their continued operation in the area.
The ongoing tensions and military presence in this buffer zone reflect the volatile nature of Israeli-Lebanese relations and underscore the complexities faced by all parties involved. Katz’s comments bring attention to the necessity for readiness in response to evolving regional circumstances.
In summary, Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed that Israeli troops will continue to occupy a buffer zone along the Lebanon border indefinitely, emphasizing a situation-dependent approach to their deployment. This decision comes amid calls from Lebanon for a full withdrawal of Israeli forces under a previous ceasefire agreement. The situation illustrates the intricate dynamics of the Israeli-Lebanese conflict and the ongoing military strategies at play.
Original Source: www.france24.com
