Israel–Palestine–Lebanon

Israel orders preparations for extended military presence in south Lebanon pending Hezbollah disarmament

DIPLOMACY
Location
Southern Lebanon (pilot zone area)
Actors
Israel · Lebanon · Hezbollah
Importance
Notable

Defence Minister Israel Katz said on 13 August 2026 he had instructed the IDF to prepare for an extended presence in southern Lebanon to protect forces and communities until Hezbollah's disarmament goal is fully achieved, tying any withdrawal to that condition after US criticism of Israel's operations in Lebanon.

Verification: Confirmed

Evidence: After US criticism, Israel ties Lebanon withdrawal to Hezbollah disarmament

Direct statements by Israel's defence minister to Reuters.