BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 15. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has stated that Israeli forces will continue to maintain a military presence in areas of Gaza, Syria and southern Lebanon for an indefinite period, citing national security concerns.
TurkicWorld reports that according to Katz, the policy is being implemented in coordination with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and is aimed at protecting Israel’s borders and nearby communities from what he described as security threats and extremist groups operating in the region.
In a statement, Katz said Israeli troops would remain in designated security zones in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza without a fixed timeline for withdrawal. He added that Israel opposes any withdrawal from southern Lebanon despite growing international pressure and future diplomatic efforts that may seek such a move.
Israeli officials argue that maintaining control over strategic areas is necessary to prevent future attacks and strengthen border security. The policy follows the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel in October 2023, after which Israeli forces expanded their military presence in parts of Gaza, southern Lebanon and Syrian territory.
The issue remains a source of regional tension, with critics arguing that the continued military presence could complicate diplomatic efforts and increase instability across the Middle East.
