Israeli fighters in southern Lebanon have full freedom of action: Netanyahu
Jerusalem, June 22
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday said that the Israeli Defence Forces fighters in southern Lebanon have full freedom of action to thwart any direct or emerging threat against them or against the residents of the north.
He said that the directives from him, along with that of the Minister of Defence, to the IDF are clear and have not changed.
"Our fighters in southern Lebanon have full freedom of action to thwart any direct or emerging threat against them or against the residents of the north. The IDF has no restrictions in this matter. I stand behind them, the entire nation stands behind them," said Netanyahu.
"I stand firm on the fact that we will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as is required to protect the residents of the north and all the citizens of the state," he added.
Earlier in the day, US Vice President J D Vance informed the media about the progress made in the negotiations in Switzerland between the US and Iran.
On Lebanon, Vance said negotiators had made "very good progress" in establishing what he described as a deconfliction mechanism aimed at preventing clashes between Israel and Hezbollah from escalating into a broader regional conflict.
"We've been, I think, very good at setting up what we're calling a deconfliction mechanism," he said.
Asked whether Washington wanted Israeli forces to leave southern Lebanon, Vance said: "We want Israel's security to be protected, and we also want Lebanon's sovereignty to be protected. And this is going to be an ongoing conversation."
He said the United States remained in contact with regional partners, including Israel, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, throughout the negotiations.
Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz had ordered the military to cease fire in Lebanon on Saturday.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Netanyahu's stance is understandable given the threats from Hezbollah. But what about Lebanon's sovereignty? This is a classic case of might making right. The US "deconfliction mechanism" sounds like diplomatic window dressing. India should use its ties with all parties to push for genuine peace.
As an Indian, I see parallels with our own security challenges. Israel has a right to defend itself, but permanent occupation never leads to lasting peace. We need more voices for diplomacy and less talk of "freedom of action" that could escalate into a wider war. 🤔
Netanyahu's "full freedom" line is dangerous rhetoric. It reminds me of how powerful nations justify actions that undermine international law. The US and others should be pushing for a ceasefire, not just deconfliction. Lebanon deserves sovereignty just as much as Israel deserves security.
From a Western perspective, this seems like Israel is overreaching. The ceasefire was ordered, but now Netanyahu is walking it back. Vance's "deconfliction" sounds like code for letting Israel do what it wants. This won't end well for anyone in the region.
India has always supported a two-state solution and peaceful resolution of conflicts. This "freedom of action" approach by Israel is problematic. It gives the military a blank cheque, which could lead to more civilian casualties in Lebanon. We need international oversight, not unilateral action.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.