Official announcements from the governments of Israel and Lebanon or major international news outlets

Israel Defense Minister Katz Warns No Agreement Without Hezbollah Withdrawal Beyond the Litani River

Jan 5, 2025, 10:13 AM

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has issued a warning regarding Hezbollah's presence in southern Lebanon, stating that if the militant group does not withdraw beyond the Litani River, there will be no agreement, and Israel will be compelled to take independent action. Katz emphasized that the complete withdrawal of Hezbollah is a prerequisite for any agreement to be realized. He reiterated that the implementation of the agreement is in Israel's interest, and the country will continue to enforce it fully. This statement comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, highlighting the critical nature of Hezbollah's withdrawal for peace negotiations.