Washington says permanent Israeli military presence in southern Lebanon violates agreement
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning over Israel’s plans to maintain a long-term military presence in southern Lebanon, arguing that such a deployment would conflict with the framework agreed upon by the parties.
The statement followed comments by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, who said that Israeli forces would remain in designated security areas in Lebanon. His remarks prompted an unusually direct response from Washington, reflecting growing concern over the future of the security arrangements along the Israeli-Lebanese border.
A U.S. State Department official said Washington expected all parties to respect the commitments established under the framework. The official also recalled Israel’s previous assurances that it did not seek to occupy Lebanese territory, stressing that a permanent military presence in southern Lebanon would not be compatible with those commitments or with the long-term interests of peace and security.
The United States reiterated its support for Lebanon’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. Under the U.S.-backed framework, the process is intended to involve a gradual and conditional redeployment, alongside measures aimed at verifying the disarmament of Hezbollah and dismantling its military infrastructure.
Washington also highlighted the role of the Lebanese Armed Forces in implementing the initial phase of the security arrangement and said it would continue supporting the Lebanese military as part of the broader effort to stabilize the border region.
The dispute intensified after Katz visited southern Lebanon and declared that Israeli forces would remain in security zones in Lebanon, as well as in parts of Syria and Gaza. He also instructed the Israeli military to prepare for what he described as a long-term presence.
The Israeli minister’s position has generated concern among regional and international observers, particularly because a prolonged military deployment could complicate diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions and restoring stability along the border.
The situation also comes amid continuing controversy over the destruction of buildings and villages in parts of southern Lebanon during military operations. Critics have raised concerns about the legality and proportionality of some of the actions, while Israel has maintained that its operations are aimed at eliminating threats and military infrastructure linked to Hezbollah.
The latest disagreement illustrates the difficult balance facing Washington as it attempts to maintain its support for Israel while also promoting Lebanese sovereignty and a diplomatic framework intended to prevent a renewed escalation.
The issue is likely to remain a major point of contention as regional tensions persist and efforts continue to establish more durable security arrangements between Israel and Lebanon.
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