Netanyahu says Israel has right to maintain security zone in southern

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will retain freedom of action in Lebanon to prevent any threats to Israel’s security.

“IDF soldiers have the freedom to act against any threat. This is a clear directive,” Netanyahu said during a press conference, as quoted by Ynet.

According to the Israeli prime minister, both the United States and Lebanon have recognized Israel’s right to maintain a security zone in southern Lebanese territory under the agreements reached between the parties.

“Under the agreements that were reached, the United States and Lebanon recognized Israel’s right to maintain a security zone [in southern Lebanon],” Netanyahu stated.

He also announced that Israel plans to launch a pilot project involving the partial withdrawal of troops from two areas in southern Lebanon. One of the locations lies outside the security zone, while the other is situated directly along its boundary.

Netanyahu described the previously signed framework agreement in Washington as a historic step.

“This agreement makes it possible to move toward ending the conflict,” the Israeli prime minister said.

By Jeyhun Aghazada