Israel says it will remain in southern Lebanon until Hezbollah disarms Israel says it will continue to occupy parts of southern Lebanon until Hezbollah is disarmed, even as US-mediated talks between Israel and Lebanon continue in Washington, DC. Israeli government spokesperson David Mencer told reporters that Israel would not withdraw its troops unless Hezbollah is disarmed and southern Lebanon is demilitarised. "We will not withdraw our forces from southern Lebanon as long as Hezbollah remains a threat, is not disarmed and demilitarised," Mencer said.