Katz to Iran: "Operation Rising Lion Was Only a Preview—Your Immunity Is Over”
Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz declared Operation Rising Lion a historic success, crippling Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities while signaling a new, aggressive defense doctrine. The campaign, which achieved air superiority over Tehran and targeted key Iranian infrastructure, sets the stage for ongoing enforcement against Iran’s threats.
Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz declared today Operation Rising Lion, a 12-day military campaign launched on June 13, a resounding success that has fundamentally altered Israel’s defense strategy. Describing it as a “brilliant 12-day campaign that will be recorded as a glorious chapter in Israel’s history and in the annals of global warfare,” Katz emphasized the operation’s devastating impact on Iran’s military capabilities. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) achieved air superiority over Tehran, neutralizing Iran’s air defense systems, destroying missile production facilities, and severely damaging key launch platforms. The operation also targeted Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, dismantling critical sites like Natanz and Isfahan, and eliminated senior security officials and top scientists involved in Iran’s nuclear program.
Katz highlighted the strategic significance of the campaign, stating, “We dismantled the plan for Israel’s destruction which Khamenei and his agents had built over decades.” As part of Operation Tornado, a component of Rising Lion, the IDF struck symbols of Iranian government and repression in Tehran, triggering the evacuation of millions of residents. Katz praised the resilience of Israel’s home front and the unified effort with the Prime Minister and IDF, noting, “We forged a united iron fist that struck the enemy with lethal force.” He revealed that he has directed the IDF to develop an enforcement strategy to maintain aerial dominance, prevent Iran’s nuclear resurgence, and counter its support for terrorism.
Addressing Iran’s leadership directly, Katz issued a stern warning: “My advice to the defanged snakehead in Tehran: take heed, Operation Rising Lion was only a preview of a new Israeli doctrine. After October 7th, your immunity is over.” This statement reflects a shift in Israel’s approach, driven by the 2023 Hamas attack and ongoing regional threats, including recent Hezbollah activities in Lebanon. The operation, coordinated with U.S. strikes under Operation Midnight Hammer, has positioned Israel to enforce stringent measures against Iran’s military ambitions.