The Israeli defense minister announced that the military will remain indefinitely in designated security zones across Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. This decision complicates ongoing ceasefire discussions with Hamas and the conditions for hostages' release, as Hamas demands full withdrawal from Gaza. Israel currently controls more than half of Gaza and has also established a presence in Lebanon and Syria. Local entities view these military actions as violations of international law, while Israel argues they are necessary for security, especially in light of recent attacks.
"Unlike in the past, the (Israeli military) is not evacuating areas that have been cleared and seized," said Defence Minister Israel Katz.
"There is one solution that is desirable and feasible, and that is the release of all the hostages at once as part of an agreement, even at the cost of ending the war," it said.
Israel says it must maintain control of what it refers to as security zones to prevent a repeat of Hamas' 7 October 2023 attack.
Palestinians, Lebanon and Syria all view the presence of Israeli troops as a military occupation in violation of international law.
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