Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz claimed that US fighter jets are taking off from Israel to carry out attacks on Iran. Katz stated that the Iranians are aware of this operation.
Katz also said that Israel strongly wants to attack Iranian energy targets but that the US does not agree at this stage. He warned that if Iran attacks, Israel will respond with full force and is prepared to strike independently.
If they fire at Israel, we will respond with full force.
Katz also addressed other fronts, claiming US President Donald Trump understands that Israel will not withdraw from buffer zones in Lebanon, Gaza, and Syria. He added, 'We know how to manage things. We are ready.'
Regarding Gaza, Katz said he visited the area a week ago and stated, 'We destroyed Gaza above and below ground.' He indicated that the timing for settlements in Gaza should come when Israel determines that Hamas has not complied with the ceasefire agreement.
Israel launched its military operation in Gaza on October 8, 2023, with US support. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, more than 73,000 Palestinians have been killed and over 174,000 injured, most of them women and children.
Despite a ceasefire agreement that took effect on October 10, 2025, Israel has continued daily attacks, killing 1,207 Palestinians and injuring 3,914 others, according to the same ministry.