US State Department officials criticized Israel's Defense Secretary Katz on the same day, pointing out that his statement “preparing to occupy southern Lebanon for a long time” was contrary to the promises made earlier by the Israeli government. According to reports, Katz claimed in southern Lebanon earlier on the 12th that “the Israeli army will remain in security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza to defend Israel.” He also said that the Israeli military has been instructed to take all necessary measures to prepare for a long-term presence in the region. A US State Department official said in this regard: “The United States expects all parties to act in accordance with the framework agreement they have agreed to, and Israel has made it clear that it has no territorial ambitions in Lebanon. Maintaining a permanent military presence in southern Lebanon is neither in line with the commitments made in this framework agreement, nor is it conducive to the long-term peace and security of the two countries.” The official stressed that the US “fully supports the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Lebanon.”

US State Department officials criticized Israel's Defense Secretary Katz on the same day, pointing out that his statement “preparing to occupy southern Lebanon for a long time” was contrary to the promises made earlier by the Israeli government. According to reports, Katz claimed in southern Lebanon earlier on the 12th that “the Israeli army will remain in security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza to defend Israel.” He also said that the Israeli military has been instructed to take all necessary measures to prepare for a long-term presence in the region. A US State Department official said in this regard: “The United States expects all parties to act in accordance with the framework agreement they have agreed to, and Israel has made it clear that it has no territorial ambitions in Lebanon. Maintaining a permanent military presence in southern Lebanon is neither in line with the commitments made in this framework agreement, nor is it conducive to the long-term peace and security of the two countries.” The official stressed that the US “fully supports the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Lebanon.”