Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced this Friday that Israel intends to maintain its military presence in southern Lebanon and Syria for an indefinite period. Katz stated that the Israeli forces would remain in these regions, emphasizing that this decision is based on the evolving situation rather than a set timeline. According to Katz, a buffer zone has been established on the Lebanese border, and although it was a challenging task, Israel stood firm on its position.
He also revealed that the United States had given its approval for this continued military presence after receiving a map outlining the areas of occupation. Katz explained that the presence of Israeli forces in Lebanon and Syria will be dictated by the situation on the ground, not by time constraints.
The defense minister also reaffirmed that Israel would persist in its military activities in Syria, particularly in strategic areas such as Mount Hermon. He insisted that Israel’s policy is to remain in these areas permanently, holding key positions of power and control. This stance aligns with Tel Aviv’s ongoing calls for the “demilitarization” of the region. Two days prior, Katz had remarked that Israel would not tolerate southern Syria becoming a mirror of southern Lebanon, a reference to Hezbollah’s strong presence and influence in southern Lebanon. Israel’s commitment to its military presence in these regions appears to be an extension of its broader security objectives.
Originally, Israel had planned to fully withdraw from southern Lebanon by February 18. However, the Israeli military has continued to maintain control over five crucial areas along the border. These locations include Labbouneh, Mount Blat, Owayda Hill, Aaziyyeh, and Hammamis Hill. Despite the ceasefire agreement signed in November 2024, which aimed to reduce hostilities, Israeli forces have been repeatedly accused of violating the terms of the ceasefire. As of now, Israel has violated the agreement over 1,300 times, with ongoing attacks and airspace violations over Lebanon. In one instance, an Israeli drone strike in eastern Lebanon’s Hermel region killed one person and wounded another on February 26. These strikes have resulted in multiple casualties, including at least four fatalities since the evening of February 25.
Israel justifies its actions by claiming it is protecting its right to prevent Hezbollah from rearming and expanding its military capabilities. However, the ceasefire agreement signed by Lebanon does not grant Israel the right to launch attacks. Instead, it calls for the dismantling of Hezbollah’s military infrastructure by the Lebanese army south of the Litani River, a region in southern Lebanon. Israel’s accusations against Hezbollah focus on the group’s failure to fully withdraw north of the Litani River as required by the agreement. Israel also alleges that Hezbollah is attempting to rebuild its forces in the area, thereby violating the terms of the ceasefire.
While Israel asserts that its continued occupation of southern Lebanon is necessary for its security, some commentators, such as Avi Ashkenazi from the Hebrew daily Maariv, argue that maintaining a buffer zone in the region is a strategic error that could lead to further casualties. Ashkenazi warned that this ongoing occupation could escalate tensions and lead to more violence.
In Syria, the situation is similarly tense. Israeli jets have been carrying out regular airstrikes targeting military infrastructure associated with the Syrian state. These attacks have focused on the south of the country, near Damascus, and have contributed to a widespread Israeli military presence throughout Syria. Israel’s stance is clear: it will not tolerate any armed presence in the southern regions of Syria.
This declaration has sparked protests from local Syrian tribes and residents, who have condemned Israel’s interference in Syria’s internal affairs and its violation of the country’s sovereignty. The ongoing Israeli operations in Syria have drawn significant criticism, both domestically and internationally, as they continue to destabilize the region.
