IDF Colonel warns: Israel must not withdraw from Gaza and Lebanon prematurely

IDF Col. (res.) Oren Zini, former commander of the Tze'elim Training Base, praised Israeli security forces for their operational and intelligence capabilities, citing successful operations against Hamas and Hezbollah. Speaking on 103FM, Zini noted a policy shift allowing troops to operate in previously restricted areas, stating, "The IDF has penetrated the enemy's most complex strongholds, against both Hamas and Hezbollah, in a way that is suffocating them from within." However, he warned against premature withdrawal from Gaza and Lebanon as part of any future diplomatic agreement, arguing that tactical achievements would be negated if Israel relinquishes control. Zini emphasized that a withdrawal would allow enemies to regroup, recalling the heavy price Israel paid after leaving the security zone in southern Lebanon in 2000, which he described as "one big retreat." He concluded by expressing concern that future agreements might force the IDF to pull back before completing its missions.