Israeli Finance Minister Says Forces Will Remain in Lebanon for Years, Rejects U.S. Withdrawal Calls

According to Israeli Finance Minister Smotrich on June 22, Israeli forces will remain stationed in a security zone in Lebanon for "years" and will establish permanent military bases there, even if the United States requests their withdrawal. The pullout will not occur unless Hezbollah completes its disarmament, Smotrich said.

Iran responded that the Lebanon "conflict de-escalation mechanism" represents a critical first test of any new agreement. Tehran said it will not execute its roadmap commitments until Israel fully withdraws from Lebanese territory.