Netanyahu announces 'deeper security zone' in Lebanon a day before direct talks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a "stronger, deeper security zone" held by Israel in southern Lebanon, a day before the two countries are to begin direct talks in the US, UNN reports with reference to CNN.

Details

"We are not talking about five points," Netanyahu said at a cabinet meeting on Monday, referring to a number of locations inside Lebanon that Israel has held since the ceasefire agreement was signed in November 2024. "We are talking about a strong, deeper security zone that simultaneously prevents the danger of invasion and distances the anti-tank threat."

Netanyahu did not say how long Israel intends to occupy the territory – and whether it would be indefinite – nor did he say what might happen to the land as a result of the negotiations. Over the weekend, Netanyahu said he personally approved direct talks between Israel and Lebanon. He said any agreement would require the disarmament of Hezbollah, and it must be a peace agreement "that will last for generations."

The long-time Israeli leader also said he supported the naval blockade of Iran announced by US President Donald Trump. Netanyahu said US Vice President J.D. Vance called from his return flight from Pakistan and promised that any deal would require Iran to give up enriched uranium and further enrichment.

As AP writes, Netanyahu also said on Monday that fighting continues in Lebanon. The fighting was concentrated in the Bint Jbeil area, a strategically important point that has been the site of fierce fighting between Israel and Hezbollah for many years.

Addition

Earlier, Netanyahu stated that Israel wants to control the territory 8-10 kilometers from the border in southern Lebanon to eliminate the threat of short-range or anti-tank missiles aimed at Israeli towns and villages on the border.