IDF Denies Report That Chief of Staff Apologized to US Over Defense Minister Katz's Iran Remarks

On Tuesday afternoon, an Israeli military official denied a report from Saudi Al-Hadath channel claiming that IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir apologized to US Central Command (CENTCOM) commander Admiral Brad Cooper. The alleged apology was said to be in response to statements made by Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Katz revealing that American aircraft take off from Israel to strike targets in Iran.

Katz made these remarks during an interview on Channel 14, stating, "The Iranians fire on everything in the area except the State of Israel because they know American planes and refuelers take off from here to attack." According to the military source, Katz's comments disclosed operational secrets, angering CENTCOM leadership. The source emphasized that while deterrence exists, the situation remains volatile, and Israel has clearly communicated that any attack on it will be met with a powerful response.

Katz further asserted that Iran has been targeted twice before and that Israel is prepared for a third strike independently if necessary. He noted that the IDF has received instructions and is preparing accordingly to conduct solo operations against Iran. However, he also acknowledged the ongoing US involvement, stating, "We are not alone; the US is here. Let's see if it returns to the campaign or acts in other ways."