Defense Minister Israel Katz: IDF commanders and fighters have full backing, from the Prime Minister, from myself and from the IDF, and complete freedom of action to act with determination to repel any threat, in southern Lebanon, in the Gaza Strip, and wherever it is required to protect the State of Israel.

The IDF will remain in the security zone in Lebanon to protect the northern communities, thwart threats, and destroy the terrorist infrastructure in the field, below and above ground.