Israel orders military to prepare for Iran attacks, vows continued Gaza presence

Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz announced that the Israeli military has been instructed to prepare for independent attacks against Iran. Speaking on the "Gatekeeper" podcast, Katz indicated that these preparations are underway, signaling a potential escalation of tensions between the two nations.

“

We have ordered the Israeli army to prepare for independent attacks against Iran.

Katz also reaffirmed his previous threats regarding southern Lebanon, stating that the region would be transformed into a "Gaza" and that the "Rafah model" would be implemented. He explained that approximately 200,000 residents evacuated from southern Lebanon would not be able to return for a "very long time," as a significant portion of their homes have been destroyed. Katz claimed that the Israeli army has systematically demolished villages in the area, with an estimated 90% of homes now gone, leaving behind only soldiers and ruined structures.

Regarding the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, Katz asserted that Israel's presence there is not only continuing but expanding. "We are in the heart of Gaza. Not only are we still in Gaza, but our presence there is expanding rather than shrinking," he stated. He noted that Israeli-controlled areas in Gaza now exceed 60 percent and declared, "We will clearly continue to stay there. These security zones are now part of Israel's national security policy."

“

We will clearly continue to stay there. These security zones are now part of Israel's national security policy.

Katz further detailed the destruction in Rafah, stating, "Rafah was razed to the ground. There is nowhere for them to return. Those who remained are trapped in tunnels." He added that similar destruction was subsequently carried out in Beit Hanoun, Khan Younis, and other areas.

“

Rafah was razed to the ground. There is nowhere for them to return. Those who remained are trapped in tunnels.