Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated Wednesday that the United States has not requested Israel to withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon. This clarification comes amid ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Lebanon. Lebanon has reportedly made a full Israeli withdrawal a prerequisite for any agreement. Katz’s statement indicates a lack of US pressure on Israel to meet this demand. The negotiations, mediated by various parties, aim to de-escalate tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border. The absence of US insistence on a withdrawal could potentially complicate the path towards a ceasefire. Further developments are expected as discussions continue.