Israel Threatens to Cripple Iran's Infrastructure if Attacked

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning on Thursday, stating that any Iranian attack on Israel would lead to a devastating response. "An Iranian attack on Israel will free us from any restrictions," Katz declared. "We will cripple all infrastructure, including energy infrastructure, and return Iran to the Stone Age and the dark ages."

Katz's remarks came amid heightened regional tensions and were made while celebrating the holiday with Ministry of Defense staff. He cited "enormous economic pressures" and the fear of an uprising and regime collapse as potential motivators for Iran to take "desperate measures."

Meanwhile, reports emerged of a U.S. airstrike in Iran on Tuesday night that reportedly struck a wedding party, killing at least five guests, including a child, and injuring 67 others. The New York Times, citing weapons experts, suggested the bomb was dropped by U.S. forces during an intense raid in southern Iran.

In parallel, The Wall Street Journal reported that President Trump is discussing with advisors the possibility of declaring an end to the war with Iran, a notion he reportedly supports. Separately, Kuwait's military announced it had intercepted missiles and drones launched from Iran toward the country.

Adding to the complex regional dynamics, Reuters reported that Iran has warned the United States of a strong response to any Israeli attack on the Al-Taher Heights in southern Lebanon, where Iranian soldiers are reportedly stationed alongside Hezbollah fighters. CNN also reported on a record-breaking U.S. military escort of 40 commercial ships carrying 18 million barrels of oil through the Strait of Hormuz, neutralizing cruise missiles and repelling drone attacks.