DUBAI: Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said a ceasefire agreement with Lebanon would allow Israel to maintain military operations in southern Lebanon and retain the “freedom of action” to strike Beirut if Hezbollah attacks Israeli territory.
Katz said the Israeli army would continue its fire and ground operations and remain in a security zone in Lebanon up to the “Yellow Line,” including the Beaufort area, while continuing to dismantle what he described as Hezbollah infrastructure.
He said any ceasefire would depend on Hezbollah withdrawing north of the Litani River and included provisions for a demilitarized zone and the disarmament of the group.
Katz also said Israel retained the freedom to strike Beirut “with American backing” in response to attacks on Israeli communities and territory.
