Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned on Friday that any Iranian attack on Israel would be Tehran's “biggest mistake.” The statement came a day after Quds Force commander Esmail Qaani said that if Israel did not withdraw voluntarily from south Lebanon, it would eventually be forced to leave in defeat.
Katz's Stern Warning
Speaking to reporters, Katz emphasized that Israel would not tolerate any aggression from Iran. “Any attack on Israel by Iran will be met with a decisive response. It would be Tehran's biggest mistake,” Katz said. He did not elaborate on specific measures Israel might take but reiterated the country's right to self-defense.
Qaani's Threat from Lebanon
On Thursday, Esmail Qaani, commander of Iran's Quds Force, issued a threat regarding Israel's presence in south Lebanon. “If Israel does not withdraw voluntarily from south Lebanon, it will eventually be forced to leave in defeat,” Qaani said. The remarks were made during a speech broadcast on Iranian state media.
Escalating Tensions
The exchange of threats comes amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran. Israel has been conducting airstrikes against Iranian-linked targets in Syria and has expressed concern over Iran's nuclear program. Iran, in turn, has increased its support for Hezbollah in Lebanon and other proxy groups.
According to analysts, the rhetoric signals a dangerous escalation. “Both sides are drawing red lines, but the risk of miscalculation is high,” said a regional security expert. The situation in south Lebanon remains volatile, with periodic clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters.
International Reactions
The United Nations has called for restraint on both sides. UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert urged all parties to avoid actions that could lead to a wider conflict. The United States reiterated its support for Israel's security, while Russia called for dialogue to de-escalate tensions.
Background
Israel and Iran have been engaged in a shadow war for years, with Israel targeting Iranian assets in Syria and Iran arming Hezbollah. The recent threats follow a series of incidents, including an alleged Israeli strike on an Iranian weapons depot near Damascus and a drone attack on an Israeli-owned ship in the Gulf of Oman.
As the situation develops, both sides appear to be preparing for potential confrontation. Katz's warning and Qaani's threat highlight the fragile state of security in the region.
