As the Israeli army continues to launch artillery strikes on the heights of Ali al-Taher and the vicinity of the town of Nabatiyeh al-Fawqa in southern Lebanon, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced today (Tuesday) that the Israeli army will not withdraw from Lebanon until (Friday) and not after.

Smotrich said: "We will remain in southern Lebanon as long as Hezbollah is not disarmed," adding: "The only instructions issued to the Israeli army in Lebanon are to deepen the achievements."

In contrast, Iran threatened a harsh response to Israel if it does not stop its attacks on Lebanon.

The Iranian television quoted the "Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters" as saying in a statement that the Israeli army violated the ceasefire in southern Lebanon 84 times over the past two days, adding: "If the attacks do not stop, it should expect a harsh response."

At the same time, Qatar called for regional dialogue following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Iran on (Friday), expressing hope that the signing would mark the beginning of fruitful future negotiations.

Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Dr. Majid Al-Ansari stated that the State of Qatar participates in the signing ceremony of the memorandum of understanding in Geneva as a confirmation of its ongoing support for mediation efforts and the promotion of peaceful solutions, indicating that Qatar supported Pakistan's efforts to reach a consensus language that contributes to establishing a ceasefire and restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Doha appreciated the Pakistani mediation and "the pivotal role it played as the main mediator in this crisis," affirming Doha's continued partnership and support for these efforts aimed at consolidating calm and promoting peaceful solutions.

He pointed out that the U.S.-Iranian negotiations took into account the security of Gulf countries and the implications of the crisis on international peace and security, including energy supply security and food security, noting that maintaining the security of the State of Qatar and its citizens and residents, and safeguarding its national security is a fundamental priority in all movements and positions.

He emphasized that the sovereignty of the Lebanese Republic represents a red line, and that there is no justification for the continuation of attacks on its territory, which threatens its security, stability, and the safety of its people.