Israel’s Defence Minister has cautioned that military operations against Hezbollah are not yet over, just hours after a 10-day ceasefire took effect in Lebanon.
In a statement broadcast on Friday, Israel Katz said that while Israeli ground operations and airstrikes have achieved significant results, the mission remains unfinished.
He explained that certain areas in southern Lebanon are still believed to contain Hezbollah fighters and weapons, adding that these zones would eventually be cleared either through diplomatic arrangements or renewed military action once the truce ends.
Katz noted that the territory between Israel’s security buffer zone and the Litani River is still under Israeli control but has not been fully secured of what he described as militant presence and arms stockpiles.
He further warned that if hostilities restart, civilians who have begun returning to their homes in southern Lebanon may be forced to evacuate once again.
As the ceasefire began at midnight, thousands of displaced residents reportedly moved back toward southern regions in hopes of resettling.
However, the Defence Minister stressed that Israel maintains the right under the agreement—outlined by the United States Department of State—to continue operations in response to any imminent or ongoing threats.
Israel has also indicated plans to retain a 10-kilometre security buffer along the border, which it says will remain free of militant activity and weapons.
He added that the area has been cleared of residents and is undergoing continued security operations, including the dismantling of infrastructure believed to be linked to Hezbollah.
The ceasefire agreement also includes provisions requiring Lebanon, with international support, to take steps aimed at preventing future attacks by Hezbollah against Israeli territory.
The situation remains fragile as both sides monitor compliance with the truce terms.
- AFP