Israel Defense Minister Katz issues warnings regarding Iran and Gaza City

Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz has affirmed the military's readiness to act on political decisions concerning Iran. Addressing reports of tension between political leaders and the military General Staff, Katz dismissed such claims as “baseless and pure fabrications,” asserting that there is complete coordination between the Prime Minister and the military establishment.

Katz emphasized that security decisions are made based on strategic necessity rather than political maneuvering. He stated that while Israel is not planning surprise escalatory actions for political purposes, the military remains prepared to respond with overwhelming force to any aggression from Tehran or its allies.

In a separate warning, Katz stated that if Hamas abducts even one Israeli soldier or civilian, Gaza City will be evacuated and “dealt with” in a manner similar to previous operations in Rafah and Beit Hanoun. He noted that the city, containing approximately one million residents, would be cleared southward until the abducted individual is returned.