Israeli Defense Minister Says Israel Awaits U.S. Approval for Major Strike on Iran
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JERUSALEM — Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated Wednesday that Israel is awaiting approval from the United States to launch a military operation targeting the family of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the nation’s energy infrastructure.
Katz made the remarks during a press briefing in Jerusalem, outlining the scope of potential Israeli action against Tehran. The Defense Minister said the plan involves eliminating the Khamenei family and destroying Iran’s energy and electrical facilities. He indicated that Israeli military readiness is in place, but the operation is contingent on a green light from Washington.
The statement marks a significant escalation in rhetoric between Israel and Iran, two nations engaged in a long-standing shadow war that has intensified in recent months. The proposed targets represent a shift from previous Israeli operations, which have largely focused on Iranian military assets and nuclear facilities. Targeting the Supreme Leader’s family would constitute a direct strike on the core of Iran’s political and religious leadership.
Katz did not specify the timing of the potential operation or the specific methods Israel intends to employ. He emphasized that the decision rests with the United States, suggesting a level of coordination between the two allies that has not been publicly detailed. The White House has not immediately commented on the Defense Minister’s remarks.
Iranian officials have not yet responded to the specific claims. However, Tehran has previously vowed severe retaliation against any Israeli aggression, particularly attacks on its leadership or critical infrastructure. Iranian state media has frequently warned that such actions would be considered an act of war.
The situation remains fluid as diplomatic channels work to prevent further escalation. Regional allies and international observers are monitoring the situation closely, concerned that a strike on Iran’s energy infrastructure could disrupt global oil markets and destabilize the Middle East. The potential for a broader regional conflict involving Iranian proxies in Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen adds another layer of complexity to the standoff.
Katz’s comments come amid heightened tensions following a series of cross-border exchanges between the two nations. While Israel has maintained a policy of strategic ambiguity regarding its capabilities and intentions, the Defense Minister’s explicit statement represents a rare public disclosure of specific operational goals.
Questions remain regarding the extent of U.S. involvement and the likelihood of American approval for such a high-stakes operation. The international community is watching to see how Washington responds to the request and whether diplomatic efforts can de-escalate the situation before military action is taken.