Israeli ministers vow 'heavy price' and indefinite stay in Lebanon after soldier deaths

Key facts

• Four Israeli soldiers were killed in combat in southern Lebanon.
• Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for Lebanon to 'burn' and for 'a thousand Lebanese mothers' to weep for every Israeli mother's tear.
• Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Israeli troops will stay in a 'security zone' in southern Lebanon for as long as necessary.
• Defense Minister Israel Katz vowed a forceful response to any Hezbollah ceasefire violations.
• The incidents occurred despite a reported US-Iran agreement to suspend military activities.

Following the deaths of four Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon, including Lt. Col. Dor Gedalia Ben Simhon, Israeli officials have issued strong statements vowing continued military presence and retaliation against Hezbollah. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for Lebanon to 'burn' and for reciprocal suffering, stating, 'For every tear of an Israeli mother, a thousand Lebanese mothers must weep.' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed that Israeli troops would remain in a designated 'security zone' in southern Lebanon for as long as necessary for the protection of northern communities. Defense Minister Israel Katz echoed this sentiment, promising a forceful response to any Hezbollah ceasefire violations. These developments occur despite a reported provisional agreement between the US and Iran to suspend military activities.