Israeli Defense Minister Katz said on the 4th that recent operations to seize the Ali Taher ridge in southern Lebanon consolidate Israel's presence and represent an important step in establishing a 'security zone'. He said Israel will not withdraw from the Lebanese 'security zone' until Hezbollah is completely disarmed and no longer poses a threat to residents of northern Israel. Katz said he and Prime Minister Netanyahu are pursuing a clear, uncompromising policy to maintain the 'security zone'

Israeli Defense Minister Katz said on the 4th that recent operations to seize the Ali Taher ridge in southern Lebanon consolidate Israel's presence and represent an important step in establishing a 'security zone'. He said Israel will not withdraw from the Lebanese 'security zone' until Hezbollah is completely disarmed and no longer poses a threat to residents of northern Israel. Katz said he and Prime Minister Netanyahu are pursuing a clear, uncompromising policy to maintain the 'security zone' until that condition is met.