Israeli Defense Minister Katz Threatens Iranian Leader Khamenei Personally

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has issued a direct and renewed threat to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, warning that if Iran continues to threaten Israel, Israeli forces will strike Tehran again with even greater force, targeting Khamenei personally. Katz made these remarks during a visit to the Ramon Air Base alongside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, praising Israeli fighter pilots for their recent Operation Rising Lion, which targeted key Iranian military and nuclear sites. Katz referred to Iran’s regional influence as the 'Iranian octopus,' a doctrine describing Tehran’s extensive militant reach across the Middle East. This is the second public threat by Katz against Khamenei, previously comparing him to Saddam Hussein and emphasizing Israel’s capability to strike anywhere in Iran. The warnings come after a 12-day conflict that ended with a ceasefire, during which Israel killed numerous Iranian military personnel and scientists, while Iran retaliated with missile and drone strikes in Israel. Katz’s comments underscore ongoing tensions and Israel’s firm stance against Iran’s nuclear ambitions and regional threats.