IDF withdrawal from Lebanon would be a failure, must hold strategic points in north, Chikli says

Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli stated that an IDF withdrawal beyond the yellow line in Lebanon would constitute a failure, arguing Israel must retain strategic positions inside Lebanese territory. He also warned Iran against attack, criticized Trump's envoys, and expressed concern over a new Sunni axis in negotiations.

Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli, in an interview with 103FM, asserted that any Israeli withdrawal beyond the yellow line in Lebanon would amount to a failure. He emphasized that Israel must retain control of strategic points inside Lebanese territory, stating, 'If we retreat back to the blue line, that will be a failure in my eyes.' Chikli drew a parallel to the Gaza Strip, arguing that Israel should not have to defend Metula from within Metula itself. He also warned Iran against attacking Israel, claiming Israel's military and strategic position is 'incomparably stronger.' Chikli criticized US President Donald Trump's envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, suggesting they have a 'blind spot' regarding the Muslim Brotherhood and that American economic interests may be conflated with strategic ones. He expressed concern over the emerging agreement with Iran, particularly the involvement of Qatar, Turkey, and Pakistan, which he called a 'dangerous, radical Sunni axis of evil.' Chikli acknowledged Trump's past contributions—lifting the embargo, moving the embassy to Jerusalem, and the Abraham Accords—but said Trump is now moving toward a deal bad for Israel, influenced by Qatar and Turkey.