Netanyahu vows to maintain Israeli security zone in Southern Lebanon ‘as long as necessary’

TEL AVIV – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Israeli forces will continue to occupy a “security zone” in southern Lebanon along the border with Israel for as long as needed to ensure the safety of Israeli citizens.

Speaking on Sunday at a conference in Jerusalem, Netanyahu emphasized that the zone was established to protect Israel and would remain under Israeli control until the security situation allows otherwise.

“We established a security zone in Lebanon, and we shall keep it as long as is necessary to protect our people,” he said.

The statement underscores Israel’s determination to maintain a military presence in parts of southern Lebanon despite recent diplomatic efforts to de-escalate broader regional conflicts, including the US-Iran agreement. The area has long been a flashpoint, particularly due to the presence of Hezbollah and repeated cross-border incidents.

Netanyahu’s remarks come amid ongoing tensions and warnings from Iran, which has vowed to respond to continued Israeli actions in Lebanon. The Israeli leader framed the occupation of the security zone as a defensive necessity rather than a permanent territorial claim.

The development is likely to complicate recent diplomatic initiatives aimed at stabilizing the Lebanon-Israel border and could influence ongoing negotiations involving regional and international actors.