Israeli Defense Minister Katz Warns of Possible New Attack on Iran

Israel's Defense Minister Yisrael Katz declared that the country will not wait for threats to materialize before acting, adding that "if necessary," Israel will carry out a new attack on Iran.

Speaking at a state memorial ceremony for soldiers who died in the Second Lebanon War, Katz emphasized that the events of October 7 demonstrated the importance of not waiting until threats reach the border. He confirmed that Israel has already conducted two preventive strikes originating from Iran and stated that a third strike will be executed if required.

Katz also affirmed that Israeli military forces will not withdraw from security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza, and will remain there indefinitely. He explained that this presence aims to protect Israeli citizens and counter what he described as jihadist elements.

At the same event, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces will stay in the security zone south of Lebanon as long as necessary. He asserted that Israel will not allow any military infrastructure to be established near its borders.

Netanyahu further declared that Israel "will not accept" a situation in which a "terrorist army," referring to Hezbollah, constructs tunnels crossing the borders. He stressed that Israel’s presence in the "defensive belt" south of Lebanon will continue as long as conditions require it.

In the same context, Netanyahu mentioned recent talks between Israeli and Lebanese representatives, describing them as an unprecedented development in years. He added that Israel will exert all efforts to reach a peace agreement with Lebanon.

He also pointed out that lessons learned from Gaza and Lebanon are clear, referring to the necessity of preventing any border threats from becoming entrenched in neighboring territories.