Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Wednesday that Israeli strikes against Hezbollah do not constitute a violation of Lebanon’s sovereignty, arguing instead that the Iran-backed group is the primary factor undermining its sovereignty.
In an interview with Al Arabiya English, Saar said Israel has only “minor” disputes with Lebanon, placing primary responsibility for tensions on Hezbollah and Iran.
Saar also stated that Israel seeks to normalize relations with Lebanon and achieve peace, while deeming it necessary to “neutralize” Hezbollah to ensure Israel’s security and to “return Lebanon to its people.”
Addressing Syria, Saar said Israel aims to reach a security agreement with Damascus while stressing that Israel has no territorial ambitions in Syria. He added that the purpose of such an agreement would be to prevent hostile activities originating from Syrian territory.
On Iran, Saar said Tehran’s nuclear ambitions pose a threat to the entire region, recalling the United States’ participation in strikes on Iranian nuclear sites during the 12-day conflict in June.
Finally, regarding Gaza, the Israeli minister said he hopes the ceasefire will move into its second phase while stressing that Hamas’ disarmament remains a major obstacle, with Israel refusing, according to him, “the existence of a terrorist state on its border.”
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