Israeli Defense Minister Warns Iran of Devastating Retaliation

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning to Tehran on Thursday, stating that any Iranian attack on Israel would remove all limitations on Israel's response. Speaking at a pre-Rosh Hashanah gathering at the Defense Ministry, Katz declared that Israel would strike all national infrastructure, including energy facilities, and "return Iran deep into the Stone Age and darkness."

Katz asserted that the Iranian regime is well aware of the severe price it would pay for aggression, referencing past Israeli actions that he claimed destroyed Iran's nuclear program, eliminated its leaders, and crippled its strategic capabilities. However, he cautioned that the intense economic pressure and fear of internal revolt could drive the Iranian leadership to desperate measures.

"There are signs we are seeing that indicate the heavy economic pressure they are under and the fear of an uprising and the fall of the regime could push them to desperate measures," Katz explained. He emphasized that Israel's defense establishment is prepared for all scenarios, with the IDF ready to execute any mission.

International reports indicate Iran is facing significant economic hardship due to stringent U.S. sanctions. U.S. President Donald Trump's recent statement asserting control over the Strait of Hormuz has further intensified pressure on Tehran. Concurrently, Iran has reportedly issued serious warnings to the U.S. through diplomatic channels, threatening a broad response to any Israeli military actions in the region.

Israeli defense officials believe the mounting economic and political pressure could indeed provoke harsh actions from Iran, particularly with the upcoming holiday season. The IDF is increasing its alert status and conducting drills to prepare for various escalation scenarios amid rising tensions in the Middle East and between the U.S. and Iran.