Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned on Thursday that Israel could soon resume military operations against Iran, a sign that despite what he said was a devastating setback for Tehran, Israel believes the broader campaign may not be complete yet.
Speaking at a ceremony to promote the incoming Israeli Air Force chief, Katz said Iran had been “set back several years” in the past year, but suggested Israel may soon need to act again to secure long-term strategic goals.
“Iran has suffered extremely severe blows over the past year that have set it back years in every area,” Katz said.
Still, Katz’s starkest warning showed that despite the current ceasefire, Israeli leaders do not believe the confrontation with Iran is resolved.
Israeli officials reportedly warned Iran’s ballistic missiles could trigger separate military action against Tehran
Instead, his comments reflected President Donald Trump’s insistence that pressure on Iran will continue until its ability to rebuild is weakened.
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Trump said on Thursday that “the blockade will continue until a real deal is reached,” signaling Washington’s intention to maintain pressure until Iran meets U.S. demands over its nuclear program and broader security concerns, Axios reported.
“We support this effort and provide necessary support, but soon we may be asked to take action again to ensure these goals are met,” Katz said.
The warning came as the Israeli Defense Ministry announced a significant increase in military supplies, with two cargo ships docking in Ashdod and Haifa and multiple transport aircraft arriving within 24 hours, carrying approximately 6,500 tons of military equipment, including thousands of items of air and ground ammunition, military trucks and combat vehicles.
Israel says more than 115,600 tons of military equipment have arrived via 403 flights and 10 sea shipments since the start of Operation Roaring Lion against Iran, underscoring what Israeli officials say is preparations for a continued or expanded conflict.
Iran’s nuclear capabilities have been destroyed, but the regime’s thirst for atomic bombs may remain
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stands with Defense Minister Israel Katz.
(Fox News)
Former Israeli national security adviser Maj. Gen. Yaakov Amidrol (ret.) told Fox News Digital that Washington and Jerusalem are now seriously preparing for two possible paths: a long-term blockade aimed at economically draining Iran, or renewed military action.
“Israel and the United States are seriously preparing for two real options, and once a decision is made, it may be made very quickly,” Amidrol said. “One is to continue the siege. This blockade can slowly drain Iran’s energy. The other is war.”
Amidroel, now a distinguished fellow at the Jewish Institute for National Security in America, said the extensive U.S. logistics buildup shows Washington is preparing for either path.
“The Americans are building logistics, mobilizing forces and taking preparation very seriously,” he said. “At some point they may feel they are ready and leadership will say, ‘We are ready, let’s go.'”
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On March 3, 2026, in Tehran, Iran, a police station was damaged in an air strike, and an Iranian flag was planted among the rubble.
But he stressed that it might be easier and faster for Israel to resume military operations.
“For Israel, it’s easier,” Amidrol said. “We need less logistics. We have rebuilt our forces in the region, improved our intelligence and built up our capabilities, while Iran’s capabilities are being eroded.”
Iran’s mission to the United Nations declined to comment.
Original source of the article: Israel’s defense minister warns strikes against Iran may resume soon, suggesting campaign is not over yet
