Katz Orders IDF Ready for Renewed Iran Fight, Security-Zone Hold

Defense Minister Israel Katz told military correspondents Monday that Iran may be considering a missile response to Israeli action in Lebanon and that Israel could face a renewed Iran campaign at any moment. He said the IDF has been ordered to prepare an independent "Blue-and-White" operation, with targets ready, and that any Iranian missile attack would draw a powerful Israeli response already made clear to Washington. On Lebanon, Katz said the linking of the Iran and Lebanon arenas prevented a heavier blow to Hezbollah, and argued Israel will not withdraw from security zones in Lebanon, Syria or Gaza until terror organizations are disarmed. The doctrine is firm but defensive: Israel keeps freedom of action so enemies cannot rebuild on its borders.