Israel Has No Plans to Withdraw From Lebanon, Syria, or Gaza
On Wednesday, the Israeli Defense Minister announced that Israel will not withdraw from any of its self-proclaimed security zones in Syria, Lebanon, and the Gaza Strip, stating that Israeli forces will remain there for an indefinite period of time. As Israel continues its bombardment of the Gaza Strip, many observers believe that these statements will further complicate the ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas and could significantly delay any potential hostage deal.
Israel still holds five strategic points in southern Lebanon, dozens of kilometres in southern Syria which it took by force, and half of the Gaza Strip, which it invaded after the ceasefire agreement it made with Hamas. It refuses to abandon the newly occupied territories and openly speaks about integrating them as part of Israeli territory, echoing its longstanding policy in the West Bank.
Israel Katz Israeli Defense Minister said in an official statement
Unlike in the past, the Israeli military is not evacuating areas that have been cleared and seized.
Israel Katz
We will remain in the security zones as a buffer between the enemy and communities in any temporary or permanent situation in Gaza as in Lebanon and Syria.
Israel Katz
Hamas has made it clear that without a full Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, there will be no new hostage deal, insisting on the establishment of a lasting ceasefire. Meanwhile, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun affirmed that the Israeli presence in southern Lebanon is “hindering” the Lebanese army’s ability to fully deploy in the area, as outlined in the ceasefire agreement.