Israeli Defense Minister outlines Lebanon strategy, vows to destroy border villages

Defense Minister Israel Katz announced Israel's policy in Lebanon following a situation assessment: the primary goal is Hezbollah's disarmament through military and diplomatic means. The IDF is completing ground operations up to the anti-tank line to defend border communities. Houses in Lebanese border villages serving as Hezbollah outposts will be destroyed following the Rafah and Khan Younis model in Gaza. The IDF will maintain security control in the Litani area, and the return of 600,000 southern Lebanese residents who evacuated northward will not be permitted until Israeli residents' safety is ensured. Katz stated the IDF will continue targeting Hezbollah leaders and operatives across Lebanon, beyond the 1,000 terrorists already eliminated, and will act forcefully against rocket fire.