JERUSALEM (VINnews)-Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning Wednesday to Yemen’s Houthi terror leadership, declaring that Israel will not withdraw from Lebanon even if pressed by the United States and that the Houthis will pay a heavy price for their attacks.

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“Even if the U.S. demands it — we won’t withdraw from Lebanon,” Katz said. “The account with the Houthis is also open. They will pay a price. If their leader comes into our crosshairs — we will eliminate him.”

The statement highlights Israel’s resolve to maintain its military posture in southern Lebanon amid ongoing security operations and international diplomatic efforts.

IDF Eliminates Hamas Terrorist Who Infiltrated on Oct. 7

In a separate operation earlier this week, the Israel Defense Forces struck in the southern Gaza Strip and eliminated Akram Muhammad Mahmoud Abu Mazi, a Hamas military wing operative who infiltrated Israeli territory during the Oct. 7, 2023, massacre.

Abu Mazi had been working in recent weeks to rebuild Hamas’ military capabilities and advance terror attacks against IDF troops and Israeli civilians, the military said.

The IDF said it took steps to minimize harm to civilians, including the use of precise munitions and aerial surveillance before the strike. Troops under Southern Command remain deployed in the area in accordance with the ceasefire agreement and will continue to act against threats.

A photo released by the IDF shows Abu Mazi on the morning of Oct. 7 as he departed to infiltrate Israeli territory.

VINnews will continue to monitor developments.