Key facts
- Israel is prepared to resume military operations against Iran with "even greater force" if necessary.
- The military aims to regain air superiority and eliminate threats in Iran.
- The Israeli air force can strike anywhere within Iran, from Tehran to Isfahan.
- Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces will remain in Lebanon "as long as the need requires".
- Yemen's Houthis were warned of repercussions for attacking Israel.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Thursday that the country is prepared to resume military operations against Iran, stating that the army is ready to act with "even greater force" if necessary to eliminate threats and regain air superiority. Speaking at a military ceremony, Katz indicated that if Israel has to return to striking Iran, it will do so with increased power.
Katz emphasized that there is no safe haven for Iranian officials who harm Israel, asserting that the country's air force can strike anywhere within Iran, from Tehran to Isfahan. IAF Commander Maj.-Gen. Tomer Bar highlighted the military's capability to reach Iran, effectively transforming it from a distant threat to a close one, and affirmed readiness to act whenever needed. Katz drew parallels between recent IDF operations against Iran and the surprise attacks during the Six-Day War.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Thursday that the war with Iran is not over and that he intends to keep Israeli forces in Lebanon "as long as the need requires." He added that the Iranian regime has been dealt a severe blow and that Iran will not possess nuclear weapons.
Additionally, Katz issued a warning to Yemen's Houthis, stating they would face significant consequences for their continued attacks against Israel. IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir credited the IAF's preparation and courage for the success of operations against Iran and in other regions like Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria.