Defense Minister discusses potential for renewed campaign against Iran

Katz emphasized maintaining Israel’s air superiority from Operation Rising Lion and called for an enforcement plan to prevent Iran’s nuclear and missile program restoration.

Defense Minister Israel Katz indicated on Tuesday evening that Israel may consider resuming its campaign against Iran, during a situation assessment held with senior military leaders.

The meeting included key military figures such as Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Eyal Zamir, Deputy Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Tamir Yadai, and heads of the IDF Intelligence Directorate, as well as additional IDF commanders and representatives from the Mossad and Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency).

Katz stressed the importance of maintaining Israel’s air superiority, which was achieved during Operation Rising Lion. He called for the development of an effective enforcement plan to prevent Iran from restoring its nuclear and missile programs.

Additionally, Katz confirmed the IDF’s stance consistent with the policy he previously outlined, stressing that the main goals of the current Israel-Hamas War are the return of all hostages and the defeat of Hamas.

Regional security developments

On regional security, Katz pointed out that two fronts remain open: Gaza and Yemen. He stressed that action must be taken to resolve these conflicts in alignment with Israel’s aggressive offensive policy, which has been successful in confronting threats from Iran, Lebanon, and Syria.

Katz further discussed the ongoing deployment of IDF soldiers, particularly at critical control points and security zones in Syria and Lebanon. He highlighted that Israel’s presence in these areas is essential for protecting Israeli communities. He also stressed that the IDF must prepare for any potential future security challenges.

IDF operations in the West Bank

Regarding the West Bank, Katz praised the IDF’s offensive operations in the northern Samaria refugee camps, which he described as successful. He instructed the IDF to maintain its presence in these camps and be prepared for further forceful action if needed, especially in response to potential new terrorist strongholds.

Katz’s warning to Iran

In early July, at an IAF pilot graduation ceremony, Katz issued a direct warning to Iran. He stated that the graduates represent the long arm of the IDF, capable of striking anywhere in Iran—from Tehran to Isfahan to Tabriz, The Jerusalem Post previously reported.

Katz described the graduates as “a direct message to the dictator [Iranian Supreme Leader Ali] Khamenei and to the ayatollahs in Iran about the destructive power of the air force should Iran test the Jewish state’s patience,” he said.

“There is no place where Iranian officials who harm Israel can hide,” he concluded.

Yonah Jeremy Bob contributed to this report.