Iranian Foreign Minister Strongly Condemns Israeli Defense Minister Katz’s Threats of Further Attacks

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi issued a sharp response to Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Katz’s recent threats of additional Israeli strikes against Iran. Araghchi tweeted that the terms of the Islamabad memorandum of understanding are clear and public, warning that if Israel ignores the U.S. president’s efforts to restrain its "pets in Tel Aviv," Iran will teach them a lesson. He added that any threat against the Iranian people or leadership will be met with an immediate and powerful response.

Katz made his remarks during a state memorial ceremony for the fallen of the Second Lebanon War, emphasizing Israel’s security policy toward Iran, Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza. He stated that the events of October 7 demonstrated the need for preemptive strikes and declared that Israel has already launched two such strikes in Iran and will strike a third time if necessary. Katz also highlighted Israel’s ongoing military presence in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza, saying the IDF will not withdraw from these security zones to protect northern Israeli communities from jihadist threats.

Araghchi’s tweet included a screenshot of an English report attributing to Katz a claim that Mohsen Khamenei, son of Iran’s Supreme Leader, had been targeted for assassination. The report also quoted Katz describing Iranians as skilled negotiators seeking concessions but reaffirming Israel’s refusal to allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons.

This verbal exchange comes amid ongoing regional tensions surrounding the Islamabad memorandum and U.S. efforts to stabilize agreements with Iran. Tehran accuses Israel of potentially undermining the deal, while Jerusalem insists on maintaining full freedom of military action despite diplomatic pressures.