Tel Aviv: Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz has issued a stern warning, stating that Israel will break the ceasefire agreement unless Hezbollah retreats north of the Litani River. Katz’s ultimatum was made during his visit to the northern command headquarters of the Israeli army, where he also inspected a weapons exhibition featuring items collected from southern Lebanon.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, Katz emphasized Israel’s commitment to implementing the agreement in Lebanon. He stated that Israel aims to fully adhere to the agreement without concessions to ensure the safe return of northern residents to their homes. Katz outlined that the primary condition for the agreement’s implementation is Hezbollah’s complete withdrawal to areas beyond the Litani River, alongside the dismantling of weapons and military infrastructure in the region by the Lebanese army, which he claims has yet to occur.
Katz further asserted, “If this condition is not met, there will be no agreement, and Israel will be forced to act on its own to ensure the safe return of the residents of the north to their homes.” His statements underline the heightened tensions and the potential for renewed conflict if the specified conditions are not fulfilled.