Israeli Defense Minister Issues Stark Warning to Lebanon as Tensions Rise
According to reports, Katz made the remarks during a meeting with UN envoy to Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, following a decision by Israel’s leadership to intensify military pressure on Beirut.
"(Hezbollah chief) Naim Qassem is playing with fire, and the fire will burn Hezbollah and all of Lebanon,” Katz said during a meeting with UN envoy to Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, as cited in a statement issued by his office.
He accused Lebanon’s government of failing to act independently of Hezbollah and suggested that it was allowing the group to influence state decisions.
“Fire will break out and engulf the cedars of Lebanon," Katz warned.
Katz also directed criticism at Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, accusing him of endangering the country’s future, and reiterated that Israel would not tolerate continued hostilities while a ceasefire is formally in place.
He stated that both he and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had instructed the military to respond forcefully to any perceived violations.
According to reports, Katz said Israeli forces have been ordered to deliver “overwhelming fire” in the event of any attacks, threats, or breaches of Israeli sovereignty.
Meanwhile, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said earlier on Monday that the existing ceasefire agreement with Israel should be seen as an initial and essential step toward future negotiations. He added that this position has already been communicated to the United States, which is involved in mediation efforts between the two sides.
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