Berlin: Germany declared its opposition to a permanent Israeli military presence on Lebanese soil, following comments made by Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz. Katz had stated that Israel would not retreat from territories in southern Lebanon currently occupied by Israeli forces.

According to Anadolu Agency, Foreign Ministry spokesman Martin Giese emphasized the German government’s stance at a press briefing in Berlin, stating unequivocally, “The federal government’s position is quite clear: We reject a permanent presence of Israeli troops on Lebanese territory. Nor must the civilian population be prevented from returning to where they live.” This sentiment was further reinforced by government spokesman Stefan Kornelius, who stressed Germany’s support for Lebanon’s territorial integrity.

In his remarks, Katz mentioned that Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) face “no restriction” in their operations within Lebanon. He asserted, “There was and is no restriction on IDF soldiers in Lebanon from operating to remove threats.” Katz further reiterated, alongside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, that Israel would not pull back from the security zone in Lebanon.

The statements from the Israeli Defense Minister followed a significant escalation of military actions in Lebanon, with Israeli forces launching over 200 strikes across southern and eastern regions of the country over the weekend. An interim agreement between Washington and Tehran had been established, calling for a cessation of hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon.