Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz declared on Thursday that the country is prepared to resume its military campaign against Iran if necessary, vowing to do so 'with even greater force'. Speaking at a military ceremony, Katz stated: 'The army is ready and on alert for a resumption of fighting, in order to regain air superiority and strike again ... in Iran, to eliminate threats, including a third time if necessary. If we have to go back, we will go back, with even greater force.'
Renewed Threats Amid Tensions
The remarks come amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, with Israel having conducted previous airstrikes on Iranian targets. Katz emphasized that the military is prepared to act decisively to counter what it perceives as threats from Iran. The statement signals Israel's willingness to take unilateral action to maintain its security.
According to Katz, the goal of any future operation would be to regain air superiority and eliminate threats. He did not specify a timeline or trigger for potential action but made clear that Israel would not hesitate to strike again if deemed necessary.
Regional Implications
The threat of a third attack underscores the ongoing volatility in the Middle East. Iran has not yet publicly responded to Katz's comments. Analysts suggest that such rhetoric could escalate into direct confrontation, though both sides have so far avoided full-scale war. Israel has conducted multiple operations against Iranian-linked targets in Syria and elsewhere, but a direct strike on Iranian soil would mark a significant escalation.
Katz's statement also reflects Israel's broader strategy of preemptive action against adversaries, a policy that has drawn both support and criticism internationally. The defence minister's vow to strike 'with even greater force' suggests that Israel is prepared to escalate its military response if provoked.
