Israeli defence minister says Iran's nuclear pursuit remains unfinished
Defence Minister Israel Katz reiterated claims that Iran is seeking nuclear weapons and warned Hezbollah against joining any renewed conflict, while political tensions persist over Israel's war strategy.
Israel's defence minister said on Sunday that efforts to curb Iran's alleged nuclear ambitions are ongoing. Israel Katz warned that Tehran is attempting to revive its drive to acquire nuclear weapons, describing the activity as a serious danger to Israel.
Katz added that Israel would not retreat from security zones in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria, and cautioned that any Hezbollah attack aligned with Iran would meet "extremely severe blows."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces political challenges after recent elections, has repeatedly spoken of possible new strikes on Iran. The United States, led by President Donald Trump, has not publicly confirmed support for such actions.
Israeli media reported that a planned operation against Iran involving the Mossad was halted after U.S. authorities became aware of it. Since the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas, Israel has intensified its military campaign, including operations in Gaza, Lebanon and parts of Syria following the 2024 death of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Katz concluded by urging unity among Israeli officials, stating that disagreements must be set aside when the nation's security is at stake.