Israel's Defense Minister Katz Threatens Action if Hezbollah Doesn't Withdraw Beyond Litani River by Deadline

Jan 5, 2025, 11:03 AM

Israel has accused Hezbollah of violating the terms of a ceasefire agreement in southern Lebanon and has threatened to take forceful action if the militant group does not comply. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the first condition for the ceasefire requires Hezbollah's complete withdrawal beyond the Litani River, disarmament, and the dismantling of its terror infrastructure by the Lebanese Army—conditions that have not been met. Katz warned that if Hezbollah fails to withdraw by the 60-day deadline, "there will be no agreement," and Israel will act independently to ensure the safe return of its residents in the northern region. The fragile truce, which began in November, has been in place for over a month but remains under strain due to ongoing violations and mutual accusations between Israel and Hezbollah, including hundreds of alleged breaches.