Israel’s defense minister stated the military is prepared to resume attacks on Iran, pending approval from U.S. President Donald Trump.
Israel Prepared for Attack on Iran
Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Thursday that the Israeli army is ready to resume attacks on Iran and is awaiting a green light from U.S. President Donald Trump to “set Iran back to the Stone Age” and “complete the work of eliminating the Khamenei dynasty.”
Targeting the Khamenei Succession
Katz referred to Mojtaba Khamenei, the successor and son of the late spiritual and political leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, whom the minister called “the initiator of the plan to eliminate Israel.”
Offensive Capabilities and Strategic Targets
Katz emphasized that the Israeli Defense Forces are prepared for “offensive and defensive actions, with targets designated” to set Iran back to “dark ages” by destroying “main energy and electrical facilities and national economic infrastructure.”
“This time the attacks will be different, deadly, and destructive blows will be aimed at the most sensitive targets (…) crushing the foundations of the terrorist Iranian regime,” Katz added.
Ongoing Conflict and Regional Impact
Israel and the USA began a war with Iran on February 28th, resulting in over 3,400 Iranian deaths. Consequences include the Israel-Hezbollah war in Lebanon and Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, causing global oil price increases.
Ceasefire Extended, Decision Rests with Trump
President Trump extended the two-week ceasefire in the war, which was set to expire on Tuesday. He did not set a date for the end of the truce but stated he extended it to allow Iran to present a peace proposal.
Media reports indicate Trump has given Tehran another 3-5 days. The status of preparations for the previously announced second round of U.S.-Iranian peace negotiations in Pakistan remains unclear, with media suggesting “good news” may arrive on Friday.
Iran’s Response and Continued Restrictions
Iran has not officially responded to Trump’s ceasefire extension. Trump stipulated that the U.S. will continue its blockade of Iranian ports while Iran continues to restrict movement through the Strait of Hormuz.