Israeli Defence Minister says troops will remain in southern Lebanon

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz on Sunday said Israeli forces will remain deployed in parts of southern Lebanon, stressing that the military retains full freedom of action to counter perceived threats in the area.

According to Katz, Israeli troops will stay in a "security zone" inside Lebanese territory. He added that the military faces no restrictions on carrying out operations aimed at eliminating threats originating from Lebanon.

Meanwhile, Iranian officials have stated that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until Israel halts its attacks on Lebanon.