Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz has hailed the framework agreement signed between Israel and Lebanon, brokered by the United States, as a 'significant political and security achievement.' Katz emphasized that this development delivers a strategic setback to the Iranian axis and opens the door to a new security reality along Israel's northern border.
In a video message, Katz stated that, for the first time in decades, the agreement could enhance security along the Lebanese border. He highlighted it as a strategic shift poised to bolster the long-term safety of Israeli citizens.
Katz asserted that Iran has failed in its attempts to force Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon through pressures and threats, assuring that Israel will respond robustly to any Iranian attempt to disrupt the agreement or target Israel.
The Israeli Defense Minister stressed that the Israeli army will not withdraw from the security zone in southern Lebanon, including the Beaufort Heights, until Hezbollah is fully disarmed across Lebanon and the security of northern Israeli towns is guaranteed.
He added that the agreement stipulates the disarmament of Hezbollah, affirming that Lebanon's future 'will not be determined by Iran or Hezbollah,' but by the Lebanese state as outlined in the framework agreement.
Katz noted that despite significant challenges in implementing the agreement, the Israeli government has instructed the military to prepare for an extended presence in the security zone, continuing efforts to eliminate any threats to Israeli forces or northern settlements.