Netanyahu: Israeli Forces Will Not Withdraw from South Lebanon Until Hezbollah Disarms

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Friday that Israeli forces would remain in southern Lebanon until Hezbollah is disarmed. The statement came shortly after the announcement of a framework agreement involving the United States, Lebanon, and Israel, made in Washington.

In a pre-recorded video shared with Israeli media, Netanyahu said, "The most important thing is, first of all, that Israel remains in the security zone in southern Lebanon. This is a major achievement, and we will maintain it as long as Hezbollah has not disarmed." He added that Israel's military would allow the Lebanese army to control territory in two pilot areas—one south of the Litani River and another north of it.

The remarks underscore the fragile security situation along the Israel-Lebanon border, where UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 war, calls for the disarmament of all militias, including Hezbollah. The Iran-backed group has maintained a significant military presence in the area despite the resolution.

There was no immediate response from Hezbollah or the Lebanese government. The framework agreement with the US and Lebanon is seen as an attempt to reduce tensions, though details remain sparse.