Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated late on Thursday that Israel would respond immediately and forcefully if Iran attacks, asserting that “no one can tell us what to do,” according to Israeli media reports.
Katz's Strong Warning
In an interview with Channel 14, Katz declared, “If Iran attacks us, we will act immediately and respond with force. No one can tell us what to do, and we have proven that.” He added, “All the capabilities exist and are being built,” noting that Israel could “respond immediately or act later.”
Israel's Independent Military Stance
Katz claimed, “We never asked the US to fight with us against Hezbollah in Lebanon, against jihadist elements in Syria or against Hamas in Gaza. We do that alone.” He emphasized, “We expected, and still expect, that the US will back our right and give us a diplomatic umbrella, not a military one, to act against all these enemies.”
Security Zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza
Katz stated, “In Lebanon, in Syria and in Gaza, we will not move from the security zones. Not in Syria, not in Gaza and not in Lebanon, we will not leave there under any circumstances.” This statement came days after the US and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding to end fighting on all fronts, including Lebanon.
Israeli Criticism of US-Iran Agreement
Israeli officials criticized the decision and vowed not to follow the agreement's provisions, drawing a strong response from US Vice President JD Vance. Speaking at the White House earlier on Thursday, Vance sharply criticized members of the Israeli government who attacked the understanding, saying, “If I were in the Cabinet of the Israeli government, I might not be attacking the only powerful ally that I have anywhere left in the entire world.” Vance added that some Israeli government members “very personally attacked the President of the United States.”
Pakistan's Announcement and Continued Strikes
Pakistan officially announced that the memorandum had entered into force, with Iran set to begin reopening the Strait of Hormuz to maritime traffic in exchange for the US starting to lift its naval blockade on Tehran. Despite the reported US-Iran agreement aimed at ending hostilities in Lebanon, Israeli strikes continued after midnight. According to the latest official figures, Israel's military offensive in Lebanon since March 2 has killed 3,912 people, injured 11,873 others, and displaced more than one million residents.
Israeli Presence in Syria and Occupied Territories
Israel also maintains a presence in Syria. Despite the new Syrian administration not issuing threats toward Israel, Israeli forces have carried out airstrikes in Syria since the ouster of Bashar al-Assad, killing civilians and targeting military sites, equipment, and ammunition. In addition, Israel occupies Palestinian and Lebanese lands and refuses to withdraw or allow the establishment of a Palestinian state, as stipulated in relevant UN resolutions.
