Israeli Defense Minister: The Israeli Army’s Presence in Southern Lebanon and the Golan Must Be Maintained

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized on Tuesday evening the necessity of maintaining the presence of the Israeli army in the border areas opposite southern Lebanon and the Golan Heights, describing these areas as a “buffer zone” to protect the population.

During a tour of the Northern Command, Gallant stated that the presence of Israeli forces in these regions serves as a barrier between jihadist enemies and the residents of the Galilee and the Golan, stressing that the army’s primary mission is to protect Israeli citizens from any threat.

According to what was reported by Yedioth Ahronoth, Gallant confirmed that the military institution will continue to take the necessary steps to ensure the security of the northern regions.

In November of the previous year, the Israeli Broadcasting Authority reported the defense minister as saying that Israel and Syria are not on the path to peace, while pointing out that the army has a plan to defend the Druze in Sweida if they come under attack.