Netanyahu: Israel keeps Lebanon posts despite withdrawal deal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Saturday that troops will begin withdrawing from two "pilot areas" in southern Lebanon while maintaining their military presence in the strategic Shqif region, claiming that Washington and Beirut agreed to a continued Israeli presence in a "security zone" in the country's south.

Strategic positions

Speaking at a press briefing in Jerusalem, Netanyahu said the army had "taken control of the Shqif area and will remain there." He added that he instructed Israeli forces to maintain freedom of movement in the area to confront any threat from Lebanon, according to Israeli media. The Shqif area overlooks large parts of southern Lebanon and northern Israel near the Litani River.

Hezbollah capabilities

Netanyahu claimed that the Israeli army destroyed around 90% of Hezbollah's missile stockpile, though there was no immediate comment from the group. Israel's "mission is not over yet," he said, adding that explosive drones remain among the main security challenges facing the military. He also claimed the arrangement followed "heavy blows" delivered by Israel against Hezbollah.

Withdrawal agreement

On Friday, Lebanon and Israel signed a framework agreement under US mediation stipulating a gradual Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory, beginning with two unnamed pilot areas. The agreement sets no timetable for a full Israeli withdrawal and links further pullback to the Lebanese army assuming security control over evacuated areas and the disarmament of non-state armed groups, with a specific reference to Hezbollah.