Israeli defense minister declares indefinite military presence in border zones

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on August 12, 2026, that Israel intends to maintain a permanent military presence in occupied areas of southern Lebanon, Syria, and the Gaza Strip. During a frontline visit to southern Lebanon, Katz stated that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will not withdraw from these "security zones" under any circumstances, asserting that this deployment is essential for the protection of northern Israeli communities. Israel currently controls significant portions of the Gaza Strip and territory in southern Lebanon.

The official stance contradicts the terms of a proposed framework agreement aimed at ending hostilities. This framework calls for the disarmament of Hezbollah, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the deployment of the Lebanese army into the region. Hezbollah has categorically rejected these terms, refusing to disarm. Meanwhile, a U.S. State Department official indicated that Washington plans to host a new round of negotiations between Israeli and Lebanese delegations in Rome in early September to address the ongoing conflict.