JERUSALEM / ISTANBUL

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed Monday that Israel will reduce its military presence in southern Lebanon if Beirut takes the “necessary steps” to disarm Hezbollah.

“Israel acknowledges the significant step taken by the Lebanese Government, under the leadership of President (Joseph) Aoun and Prime Minister (Nawaf) Salam,” Netanyahu’s office said in a statement.

The Israeli premier called a recent Lebanese government decision to disarm non-state groups, including Hezbollah, by the end of 2025 a “momentous decision.”

On Aug. 5, the Lebanese government approved a plan to consolidate all weapons under state control. The government tasked the army with drafting a plan to achieve this by the end of the month and executing it before the end of 2025. Hezbollah rejected the decision, calling it a “grave sin.”

Netanyahu’s office described the Lebanese decision as “a crucial opportunity for Lebanon to reclaim its sovereignty and restore the authority of its state institutions, military, and governance – free from the influence of non-state actors.”

“Israel stands ready to support Lebanon in its efforts to disarm Hezbollah and to work together towards a more secure and stable future for both nations,” his office said.

If the Lebanese army "takes the necessary steps to implement the disarmament of Hezbollah, Israel will engage in reciprocal measures, including a phased reduction of IDF (army) presence in coordination with the US-led security mechanism.”

There was no immediate comment from the Lebanese government or Hezbollah on the Israeli statement.

Israel launched a military offensive in Lebanon on Oct. 8, 2023, which escalated into a full-scale war by September 2024, killing more than 4,000 people and injuring around 17,000.

A ceasefire was reached in November, but Israeli forces have conducted near-daily attacks in southern Lebanon, claiming to target Hezbollah activities.

Under the truce, Israel was supposed to fully withdraw from southern Lebanon by Jan. 26, but the deadline was extended to Feb. 18 after Tel Aviv refused to comply. Israel still maintains a military presence at five border outposts.