Katz Tells Hegseth Israel Will Hold Security Zones Along Its Borders

Defense Minister Israel Katz told U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth overnight that Israel is determined to remain in security zones in Syria, Gaza and Lebanon. Hegseth briefed Katz on U.S. military operations in Iran, and the two agreed to continue cooperation as developments unfold. Katz reviewed Israeli operations against jihadist terrorist groups across the three fronts, saying the zones protect Israel’s borders and nearby communities and reflect a central lesson of October 7. He said Israel has never asked Washington to act in its place along the borders and remains committed to defending Israeli residents against every threat.