Israel Declares Open-Ended Occupation of Security Buffer Zones
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed on June 18, 2026, that Israeli forces will maintain an open-ended military occupation of newly established security belts in southern Lebanon, Gaza, and Syria. Despite international pressure and rumors of a U.S.-Iran peace deal, Katz stated there is no time limit for the withdrawal of troops. The seized territory, totaling approximately 1,000 square kilometers, is being cleared of residents and infrastructure to create permanent buffer zones against militant infiltration.
Date: June 18, 2026
Location: Israel
Conflict: Israel-Hezbollah Conflict
Category: other
Severity: HIGH
Source: Arab News