Israel Conditions Southern Lebanon Withdrawal on Full Hezbollah Disarmament
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that Israeli forces will not withdraw from southern Lebanon until Hezbollah is completely disarmed. This hardening of the Israeli position follows international pressure for a ceasefire and withdrawal. Israel maintains that its military presence is necessary to prevent cross-border attacks and ensure the safety of northern Israeli communities, while Hezbollah continues to reject disarmament as a precondition for any truce or cessation of hostilities.
Date: August 13, 2026
Location: South Lebanon, Lebanon
Conflict: Israel-Hezbollah Conflict
Category: diplomacy
Severity: HIGH
Source: Reuters