Israel says US has not demanded withdrawal from southern Lebanon

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated on Wednesday that the United States has not demanded Israel withdraw its troops from southern Lebanon, contradicting claims that such a condition was part of ceasefire negotiations. Katz called the absence of a US demand a 'diplomatic achievement' and reiterated that Israel would not pull out regardless Source: cna; mileniomx; infobae.

Positions on withdrawal

• Israel's stance: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed Katz, vowing to maintain a 'security zone' in southern Lebanon as long as necessary to dismantle Hezbollah infrastructure Source: cna. Katz told US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and President Donald Trump that Israeli forces are there to protect northern residents Source: mileniomx.
• US position: Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Israel has 'no territorial claims' in Lebanon and that its presence is solely due to Hezbollah attacks. He noted that as Lebanese forces secure territory, the need for Israeli presence will diminish Source: infobae.
• Lebanese rejection: President Joseph Aoun rejected Israel's occupation and foreign interference Source: cna. Lebanon has set withdrawal as a condition in talks.

Broader context

The statements come amid a fragile ceasefire and the fifth round of US-mediated talks in Washington. Iran has linked peace in Lebanon to a broader US-Iran agreement. Despite the truce, cross-border incidents have occurred, with both sides accusing each other of violations Source: mileniomx. The Lebanese health ministry reports over 4,200 dead since March Source: infobae.