Middle East
09:07 AM | 04 Jun 2026
“A major achievement.” Katz: Our operations are continuing and the residents of the south will not return for now
Fady Mahouly
Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz confirmed that the recent Lebanon agreement included a condemnation of Iranian interference in the region, noting that it consolidates what he described as a “major achievement” in the Lebanese arena, and calling on the internal opposition to acknowledge this.
He pointed out that the Lebanon agreement includes the establishment of a demilitarized zone, stressing that the Israeli army will continue its operations on the ground during the current stage.
He explained that Israeli forces would remain in what he described as the "security zone" inside Lebanon, up to the "yellow line."
He stressed that residents of southern Lebanon will not be able to return at this stage, within the framework of the ongoing security arrangements on the border.
On the other hand, Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir said that the ceasefire with Lebanon is a “serious mistake,” criticizing the recent agreement.
Ben Gvir added that the agreement includes a “categorical declaration” regarding the dismantling of Hezbollah’s weapons. He also called for a cabinet session to be held and a vote on a ceasefire resolution with Lebanon.