Israel Declares No Timetable for Withdrawal
On Thursday, Israel announced it has set no timetable for withdrawing its forces from Lebanon, Gaza, and Syria as officials engaged in US-brokered talks.
Israeli military launched airstrikes in Lebanon after Hezbollah entered the Middle East war in March. IDF Forces Remain in Security Zone
Defence Minister Israel Katz said at a graduation ceremony that IDF must remain in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza to defend residents against jihadist elements.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated troops would stay in south Lebanon as long as necessary.
US Pressure Leads to Talks
Lebanese officials began direct talks with Israel in Washington under US pressure. The latest round of three-day talks is set to conclude on Thursday.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio commented that the two neighbors were close to making a “commitment of intent.”
Mencer Stresses Responsibility and Demilitarization
Mencer emphasized responsibility for northern citizens and Israel’s border, stating any redeployment would come after Hezbollah’s demilitarization and disarmament.