Defense Minister Israel Katz said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government had adopted a policy under which the Israel Defense Forces would stay in the areas to protect Israeli borders and communities.Katz said the deployment was intended to counter threats from armed groups and warned Iran that Israel would respond with full force if attacked in connection with the conflict in Lebanon.

The statement came after Washington and Tehran announced a deal calling for an end to military operations, including fighting linked to Lebanon.Lebanon has urged displaced residents not to return immediately, saying details of the agreement remain unclear and security conditions are still uncertain.

The Israeli government has maintained that its forces must continue operating in strategic areas, while regional actors continue diplomatic efforts following months of escalating conflict.

The developments come as the Middle East faces ongoing security tensions involving Israel, Iran, Lebanon, Syria and Gaza.