JERUSALEM / NABATIEH: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday that Israeli forces would remain in southern Lebanon “as long as necessary”, while also vowing to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

“We will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as necessary to protect the cherished residents of the north and all the citizens of Israel… Nothing will alter that commitment,” Netanyahu said.

Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israeli soldiers are free to act without restriction to eliminate threats in Lebanon, adding troops remained in position in what Israel refers to as a security zone.

A ceasefire with Hezbollah took effect on Friday after months of escalating violence, but on Saturday Israeli strikes killed at least 20 people in Lebanon.

Israeli defence minister claims no restriction on soldiers ‘eliminating threats’ in Lebanon

A Hezbollah official told Reuters the group was committed to the ceasefire as long as Israel adheres to it, adding that Israeli forces do not have the right to freedom of movement in south Lebanon.

The official said Hezbollah forces have not fired on Israeli troops since 6:30pm (1530 GMT) Saturday.

‘In a difficult position’

Israel’s military chief said Hezbollah had suffered a severe blow fighting Israeli forces and was now in a “very difficult position”, as he met with troops in southern Lebanon. “Hezbollah has suffered a severe and significant blow, and we are committed to remaining prepared to continue operating and prevent its rebuilding,” Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir said.

Some south Lebanon residents have cautiously headed back to their hometowns on Sunday after fighting paused between Israel and Hezbollah the previous evening, even as Lebanon’s army warns locals to delay returns.

In the southern city of Nabatieh, AFP correspondents have seen just a few residents trickling back to inspect homes and businesses.

Mohammad Salloum said he had come back briefly to check on his shop but would return to the city of Sidon, where he has taken refuge.

Lebanon’s army emphasised “the need for residents to delay their return to southern border villages and towns” and to comply with army instructions “to preserve their safety from the danger of Israeli violations and attacks”.

Published in Dawn, June 22nd, 2026