**US Urges Israel to Adhere to Withdrawal Agreement from Lebanon**
The United States State Department has reportedly issued a directive to Israel, urging it to comply with a previously established framework that mandates the withdrawal of its troops from southern Lebanon. This development follows remarks made by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, who stated that Israeli forces are “here to stay” in the region.
The context of this situation stems from a US-brokered agreement signed on June 26, which outlined Israel's commitment to withdraw from the territory it occupies in southern Lebanon. In return, the Lebanese government is expected to disarm Hezbollah and ensure that its military is the sole armed force in the country. This framework was intended to promote stability and security in the region.
During a visit to the occupied territories, Katz reinforced Israel's position, asserting that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) would maintain a presence in security zones across Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza. He emphasized that the IDF would take all necessary measures to prepare for a prolonged stay, stating, “As the Prime Minister and I have clearly stated, we are not withdrawing from this security zone… under no circumstances will we withdraw.”
The US response to Katz's comments was swift. A State Department official highlighted that the United States expects all involved parties to honor the commitments made under the framework agreement. The official reiterated that Israel has no territorial ambitions in Lebanon, emphasizing that a permanent military presence would contradict the commitments made and undermine the long-term peace and security of both nations.
Currently, Israel occupies approximately 600 square kilometers of southern Lebanon, including territories north of the Litani River. The occupation has led to significant humanitarian consequences, including the destruction of numerous villages and the displacement of over 1.2 million Lebanese civilians.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also suggested the possibility of permanently annexing certain regions of southern Lebanon. In a recent interview, he claimed that some Christian villages in Lebanon have expressed a desire to be annexed by Israel, citing protection against Hezbollah. However, local Christian leaders in southern Lebanon have strongly refuted these claims, labeling them as “completely fabricated” and disconnected from reality.
The ongoing Israeli military presence in Lebanon has complicated diplomatic efforts, particularly in relation to US-Iran negotiations. A memorandum of understanding reached on July 17 between Washington and Tehran called for an immediate cessation of military operations across all fronts, including Lebanon. However, Israel's actions have not aligned with this directive.
As tensions continue to rise, the US's call for Israel to adhere to its commitments under the framework agreement underscores the complexities of the geopolitical landscape in the region. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for both Israeli security and Lebanese sovereignty.