Israel Refuses to Withdraw Troops from Southern Lebanon Amid U.S.-Iran Ceasefire Deal

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared on June 16 that Israel will not withdraw its troops from the buffer zone in southern Lebanon under any circumstances, despite anticipated international criticism. Speaking at a ceremony marking the beginning of construction on a new Jewish settlement in the West Bank, Katz emphasized Israel's commitment to maintaining its security position. He stated that Israeli forces have advanced to Beirut and beyond, and are systematically destroying tunnels and eliminating terrorist facilities in villages near the Israeli border.

Katz's remarks come as the United States and Iran confirmed they have reached a ceasefire agreement set to be finalized in Geneva on June 19. According to officials from both countries, as well as Pakistan, which is mediating the talks, the agreement includes a 60-day ceasefire during which military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon, will cease immediately and permanently. The accord also calls for discussions on Iran's nuclear program and the lifting of the U.S. maritime blockade against Iran, effective from June 15.

The timing of Israel's refusal to withdraw coincides with the broader regional ceasefire negotiations, raising questions about Israel's participation in or acceptance of the Geneva agreement. Katz's statement underscores Israel's determination to maintain military control in southern Lebanon regardless of international pressure or the terms of parallel peace negotiations in the region.