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 in Tel Aviv's Kirya complex during a period of heightened security tensions with Lebanon. The meeting coincided with Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) strikes in southern Lebanon following an explosion that killed two Israeli soldiers and injured four others. Katz shared a photo from the gathering on social media, with participant Mizal Mika Rochman expressing increased confidence after speaking with him.

Katz stated that the political meeting took place before the escalation in Lebanon, though the timing remains sensitive. The use of government offices for political campaigning is prohibited, especially ahead of elections, with legal guidelines requiring a strict separation between political activities and official duties. Katz also cleared his schedule that morning to meet with two rabbis, Rabbi Lior and Rabbi Mezuz, receiving blessings for the safety and success of IDF soldiers.

In response to criticism, Katz explained that due to his busy security-related agenda and additional meetings at the Defense Ministry, the meeting with Likud Women was held there as an exception. Given the increased security measures surrounding the minister, most of his meetings occur at the Kirya. The meeting with Rabbi Mezuz was specifically to seek blessings for the soldiers' well-being amid ongoing military operations.