Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated on October 14, 2026, during a visit to IDF positions in southern Lebanon that Israel will not withdraw from current security zones and would expand control to additional territory up to and beyond the Litani River if Hezbollah joins Iranian attacks. Israeli forces continue operations to destroy Hezbollah infrastructure south of the river while reinforcing positions and maintaining a buffer zone, consistent with post-2024 campaign objectives and recent crossings of the Litani during May 2026 raids. Hezbollah has been reported rebuilding capabilities on both sides of the river amid the focus on Iran, while Lebanese officials and the U.S.-brokered framework agreement call for phased IDF withdrawal tied to Lebanese Army deployment and disarmament commitments, with deadlines previously extended into 2026. Ongoing strikes, civilian evacuation orders, and statements from both sides linking any pullback to verified security conditions continue to shape trader assessments of near-term withdrawal prospects.