Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Israel remains committed to disarming Hezbollah “through military and political means,” following a security assessment with senior military officials.
Katz emphasized that Israel’s primary objective in Lebanon is the dismantling of Hezbollah’s military capabilities, regardless of broader tensions involving Iran. He added that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are nearing the completion of their ground offensive in southern Lebanon, reaching areas from which Hezbollah could launch anti-tank missiles at Israeli communities.
According to Katz, Israel intends to maintain security control in southern Lebanon up to the Litani River, and will not allow the return of approximately 600,000 displaced residents to the area until the safety of northern Israeli communities is ensured.
Katz also emphasized that homes in Lebanon used as Hezbollah positions will be destroyed following the model of Rafah and Khan Younis.
The remarks came shortly before a new evacuation-related warning issued by Avichay Adraee, the IDF’s Arabic-language spokesperson. In a statement, Adraee said the military is preparing for “extensive and precise strikes” against Hezbollah activities in southern Lebanon, citing the movement of militants under civilian cover.
As part of these preparations, the IDF warned it may target key infrastructure to prevent the transfer of reinforcements and weapons, specifically mentioning the Suhmor–Mashghara bridges located along the Litani River.
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