Tel Aviv — In an unprecedented statement by Israeli War Minister Yoav Gallant, Israeli forces will maintain an indefinite military presence in Gaza, southern Lebanon, and parts of Syria to maintain national security and fend off potential threats from hostile actors in the region.
At a press conference hosted by the Ministry of Defense on Tuesday, Gallant announced his decision in response to ongoing security threats from Hamas, Hezbollah and Iranian-backed militias operating near Israel’s borders. Gallant declared: “Our enemies must understand that Israel will not retreat under fire; wherever threats emerge – whether in Gaza, Lebanon or Syria- our forces will stay until security and stability have been restored.
Israel does not seek long-term occupation of Palestinian territory, yet their troops will stay as long as necessary to dismantle terror infrastructure and stop militant activity resurfacing. “We are in these territories not by choice but necessity,” stated the minister.
Gallant’s remarks come at a time when Israeli operations continue in various theaters. In Gaza, Israeli ground forces remain engaged in urban warfare against Hamas militants following a significant escalation. Meanwhile in southern Lebanon cross-border clashes have escalated leading to fears of wider regional conflict; and in Syria Israel has often conducted airstrikes targeting Iranian-linked targets while maintaining minimal presence on the ground.
Critics of this announcement include human rights organizations and regional leaders who warn that prolonged military presence could escalate tensions and worsen humanitarian conditions. Meanwhile, the UN has called for restraint and reiterated their support of a two-state solution with regard for international law.
Palestinian officials have strongly denounced this move, calling it “a step toward permanent occupation” and appealing to global powers for diplomatic intervention. Meanwhile, Hezbollah leaders pledged their continued resistance, asserting that any foreign troops present on Lebanese territory are legitimate targets.
Israeli officials insist that their move is defensive in nature despite widespread international outrage, with Gallant asserting: “We will never abandon the security or people of Israel; this is about survival, not expansion.”
Israel’s declaration marks a step toward strengthening their military posture in neighboring territories as regional tensions intensify.
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