Israeli Minister Ze'ev Elkin Warns of Crushing Response to Iranian Attacks, Highlights Major Gains in Lebanon
Israeli Minister Ze'ev Elkin, a member of the Security Cabinet, gave an extensive interview discussing the escalating tensions with Iran and the broader security situation. He explained that the current conflict with Iran is primarily driven by the United States, which has responded decisively to Iranian provocations, particularly attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Elkin warned that if Iran attempts to attack Israel amid this escalation, Israel will respond with overwhelming force, with the military already prepared and having a target list. He also noted that Israel is ready to assist the U.S. if requested.
Regarding the northern front, Elkin emphasized significant Israeli achievements in southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces have dismantled Hezbollah’s infrastructure along the border. He described how entire villages that served as Hezbollah strongholds have been erased, leaving militants with no safe return, marking a dramatic change for northern Israeli residents.
On the political front, Elkin credited Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership for maintaining government stability over the past two years, a rare occurrence in recent decades. He highlighted that his own party’s decision to join the government prevented its collapse after key ultra-Orthodox parties withdrew.
Elkin also discussed the upcoming vote on the Basic Law on Torah Study, which he described as a crucial constitutional foundation for future military conscription laws affecting the ultra-Orthodox community. He criticized internal divisions within the ultra-Orthodox parties for hindering the passage of conscription legislation.
Finally, Elkin expressed skepticism about potential cooperation between ultra-Orthodox representatives and former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot, who is aligned with the center-left bloc. He sharply criticized the center-left for fostering what he called "hatred of the ultra-Orthodox," turning the issue into an ideological battle against Netanyahu and the right-wing by targeting the ultra-Orthodox community.
