US pushes back as Katz says IDF will not withdraw from security zone in southern Lebanon

Washington pushed back on Thursday after Defense Minister Israel Katz said the IDF would not withdraw from the security zone in southern Lebanon and ordered preparations for a long-term presence. A senior US State Department official said a permanent Israeli military presence is inconsistent with commitments under the understandings, while noting withdrawal is tied to verified disarmament of Hezbollah.

Washington pushed back on Thursday after Defense Minister Israel Katz declared that the IDF would not withdraw from the security zone in southern Lebanon and ordered the military to prepare for a long-term presence there. A senior US State Department official responded overnight, clarifying that from Washington's perspective, a permanent Israeli military presence in southern Lebanon is inconsistent with the commitments made under the understandings. The official said the United States expects all parties to act consistently with the agreed framework, and that Israel has stated it has no territorial ambitions in Lebanon. The official stressed US support for Lebanon's territorial integrity and sovereignty, but clarified that Israeli withdrawal is expected to proceed in accordance with progress in disarming Hezbollah and dismantling its infrastructure. The framework includes a conditions-based path for gradual withdrawal, tied to verified disarmament of Hezbollah. The official noted that the Lebanese Armed Forces have begun implementing initial pilot zones, and the US will continue to support full implementation. Katz, speaking during a visit to IDF troops in Lebanon, said Israel did not intend to withdraw from areas it currently holds, citing the lesson of October 7 and the need to protect northern communities. He said the IDF would clear the area and ensure security, and that Israel would not withdraw from security zones in Lebanon, Syria, or Gaza.