Defense Minister Meets Likud Women Amid Lebanon Tensions and IDF Attacks

On August 6, Defense Minister Israel Katz met with a group known as "Likud Women" at the Defense Ministry offices in Tel Aviv's Kirya complex during a period of heightened security tensions in Lebanon. The meeting occurred as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted strikes in southern Lebanon following an attack that killed two Israeli soldiers and injured four others. Katz shared a photo from the meeting on social media, where participant Mazal Mika Rochman expressed increased confidence after speaking with him.

Katz stated that the political meeting took place before the escalation in Lebanon, though the timing remains sensitive. He emphasized that the meeting was held at the Defense Ministry due to his busy security schedule and additional military briefings. The use of government offices for political campaigning is legally prohibited, and ahead of elections, strict guidelines require separation between political activities and official duties.

Additionally, Katz set aside time the same morning to meet with two rabbis, Lior and Mezuz, to receive blessings for the safety and success of IDF soldiers. Due to the tense security environment, Katz operates under heightened protection, and most of his meetings are held within the Kirya complex as per security instructions.