Katz’s remarks came a day after Esmail Qaani, commander of Iran’s Quds Force, said Israel would ultimately be forced to withdraw from southern Lebanon if it did not leave voluntarily.

Speaking on Thursday, Qaani said Israel’s military presence in southern Lebanon could not be sustained indefinitely and predicted it would eventually end in withdrawal following continued regional pressure.

Katz did not elaborate on the nature of Israel’s potential response but issued the warning amid heightened tensions involving Iran, Israel and Lebanon, where cross-border security concerns remain closely tied to broader regional negotiations.

The exchange of statements reflects the fragile security environment as diplomatic efforts continue to address unresolved disputes stemming from the recent conflict between Iran and Israel, alongside parallel negotiations concerning Lebanon’s security situation.