Arabic version: نتنياهو يؤكد وجود القوات في لبنان وسوريا وغزة

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that the country’s forces would remain in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria “for as long as necessary,” hours after a deal was announced between Iran and the US to end the Middle East war. Netanyahu emphasized the establishment of security zones around Israel, stating, “We will remain in these security zones for as long as necessary to protect our country.” According to Arab News, Netanyahu’s defense minister, Israel Katz, echoed these sentiments, asserting a clear policy that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will remain in the security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza for an unlimited period of time.

Katz further warned Iran of severe repercussions should it retaliate against Israel’s military actions in Lebanon. He stated that Israel would respond with “full force” to any attacks from Iran, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region. This stance reinforces Israel’s commitment to maintaining its military presence in areas it considers critical for national security.

The Israeli leadership’s resolve comes at a time of significant geopolitical shifts in the Middle East, particularly with the recent agreement between Iran and the US. The implications of this agreement, however, do not seem to alter Israel’s military strategy or its approach to regional security. The situation remains complex, with ongoing threats perceived from various militant groups operating in the neighboring territories.