Israeli Defense Minister Reveals US Blocks Iran Strikes Despite Israeli Readiness

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz disclosed in a Channel 14 security conference interview that Israel is prepared to launch attacks on Iran's energy infrastructure, but the United States currently prohibits such actions due to concerns over regional instability and a potential global oil crisis. Katz explained the divergence between Israeli and American interests, noting that the US prioritizes broader strategic concerns like the Strait of Hormuz and energy security, while Israel focuses on neutralizing Iran's nuclear and missile capabilities.

Katz revealed close operational cooperation between Israel and the US, including American fighter jets and refueling aircraft operating from Israeli territory for strikes against Iran. He also warned that Iranian attempts to target Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are being actively countered by the Shin Bet security service. Katz highlighted Israel's achievements in degrading Iran's military capabilities, claiming the elimination of Qasem Soleimani alongside the US, the dropping of over 35,000 tons of bombs, and a significant reduction in Iran's missile launches and nuclear progress.

The Defense Minister stated that Israel is prepared to act independently if attacked, emphasizing readiness to deliver a "third Blue-White operation" to prevent Iran from regaining nuclear or missile strength. Regarding drone attacks from Iraq, Katz assured Israel's capability to respond decisively to any direct Iranian aggression.

On regional security, Katz affirmed Israel's firm control over more than 60% of Gaza and plans to increase this to 70%, employing a strategy of population evacuation, intense military strikes, occupation, and infrastructure destruction. He confirmed plans to establish three new Nahal Brigade outposts in Gaza, contingent on Hamas failing to disarm, with US coordination. Katz compared this to Israel's security zone in southern Lebanon, where 24 Hezbollah villages were destroyed to create a 700 square kilometer buffer.

Addressing potential Abraham Accords expansions with Lebanon, Syria, or Saudi Arabia, Katz stressed that Israel's military strength and leadership will drive diplomatic achievements without concessions. He concluded with a stern warning to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan against strengthening Syria or the Muslim Brotherhood axis, asserting Israel's permanent presence and cautioning Erdogan not to provoke Israel as Iran has done.