Netanyahu and Katz Warn of Iranian Nuclear Threat and Election Interference

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz delivered speeches at a recent officer’s course completion ceremony, addressing the Iranian threat, security forces' readiness for elections, and IDF operations. Netanyahu stated that Iran, under its new leader Mojtaba Khamenei, is attempting to develop nuclear weapons again, comparing the situation to 'pulling the pin' on 'bombs of death.' He asserted that the only way to permanently remove this threat is to overthrow the Iranian regime, instructing the IDF, Mossad, and security agencies accordingly.

Defense Minister Katz warned that Iran's perceived weakness might lead it to take extreme actions against Israel, including attempts to disrupt the upcoming Israeli elections through terrorist attacks. He assured that Israel's security apparatus is prepared to thwart such efforts, sending a clear message to Tehran: "If Iran attacks Israel, Iran will burn." Katz emphasized that any entity attacking Israel, before or after the elections, or harming Israeli soldiers and civilians, would pay a heavy price.

Katz also discussed IDF operations in Lebanon and Syria, stating Israel's commitment to protecting residents of the Galilee and Golan Heights. He declared that Israel would not withdraw from security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza, and cautioned Hezbollah against joining any Iranian attack, warning of severe repercussions. He announced plans to expand Israel's permanent security zone in southern Lebanon, encompassing areas like Nabatieh and the Litani River, and to evacuate the entire Shia population up to the Awali and Zahrani rivers northward. This move, he estimated, would displace over a million Shia civilians and allow for the destruction of terror infrastructure and the removal of drone threats to northern Israel. He also mentioned that Beirut's Dahiyeh district would be evacuated and its terror infrastructure targeted.

Referring to Hezbollah official Naim Qassem, Katz drew a parallel to the fate of former Hezbollah leader Nasrallah, suggesting Qassem could also be eliminated if he continues to 'destroy the Shia community in Lebanon.' Regarding the Gaza Strip, Katz reported that the IDF controls security zones in approximately 70% of the territory, cleared of residents and terror infrastructure. He stated that the IDF continues to eliminate terrorists involved in the October 7th attacks and those operating against Israeli forces, estimating that 4,000 have been killed and another 2,000 will be eliminated.