Key facts
- Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced troops will remain indefinitely in "security zones" in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria.
- These zones are intended to protect Israel from "jihadist terrorists."
- Israel has occupied approximately 1,000 square kilometers across the three regions.
- Hezbollah considers Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon essential for any peace agreement.
- The presence of Israeli forces is viewed as military occupation by Palestinians and neighboring countries.
- Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated that Israel's continued presence in parts of Lebanon is hindering the Lebanese army.
Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that Israeli troops will maintain an indefinite presence in "security zones" within Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. These zones, established to protect Israeli residents from what Katz termed "jihadist terrorists," encompass roughly 1,000 square kilometers of territory seized over the past two and a half years. Katz provided no timeline for withdrawal, a stance that complicates potential peace negotiations. Hezbollah has emphasized that Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon is a prerequisite for any peace deal. Palestinians and neighboring countries view Israel's continued military presence as an occupation that violates international law. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun indicated that Israel's ongoing presence in certain Lebanese areas impedes the Lebanese army.