Israel Katz

Defense Minister:

'Iran attempting to influence Israeli elections'

Defense Minister Israel Katz warns that Iran and its proxies are attempting to carry out terrorist attacks aimed at influencing the outcome of Israel's elections.

Following security threats

Israel to ban certain types of drones

Defense Minister Israel Katz is expected to sign an order on Sunday banning the operation of fiber-optic and SIM-controlled drones for six months, following security threats.

'I will not give in':

Katz draws a red line for the High Court over Judea and Samaria

Katz warns the High Court against intervening in IDF’s activities in northern Samaria refugee camps, vows to maintain IDF presence, even if special legislation is needed.

Katz raises Gaza alert ahead of October 7 anniversary

Defense Minister Israel Katz orders IDF to heighten readiness in Gaza following intelligence that Hamas may attempt attacks against Israeli forces.

Defense Minister threatens Hamas leaders abroad

Minister Katz responded to the elimination of the commander of Hamas' Northern Gaza Brigade and made clear that the defense establishment will continue pursuing the terrorist organization's senior leaders.

Katz orders full closure of Judea and Samaria over holiday

Palestinian Authority workers barred from entering Israeli communities during the holiday, with few exceptions.

Now it's official

Katz signs final approval erasing Elor Azaria’s criminal record

Defense Minister Israel Katz signs the final approval expunging Elor Azaria’s criminal record, implementing President Isaac Herzog’s clemency decision.

‘We will not withdraw’:

Katz fires back at Syrian President over Golan

Defense Minister Israel Katz rejects Syria’s claim to the Golan Heights and warns that territory captured in response to future attacks will remain Israeli.

IDF eliminates Hamas finance chief in Gaza

Hamas finance chief Muhammad Abu Alwan eliminated in Khan Yunis, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz announce.

Defense Minister:

'If even one Israeli is captured, Gaza City will be emptied'

Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a series of sharp warnings to Hamas and its supporters, including Iran and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Katz warns:

Whoever approaches will be destroyed

Defense Minister Katz says IDF will remain in southern Lebanon’s security zone until Hezbollah is disarmed, warning anyone approaching Ali al-Taher Ridge.

Defense Minister

Terror tunnels intended to be used to launch conquest of Galilee

Defense Minister Israel Katz praises IDF troops following destruction of tunnels on Ali al-Taher Ridge: “We promised security to the residents of the north - and we delivered."

Watch

All terror tunnels at former Hezbollah stronghold dismantled

The IDF dismantled Hezbollah’s underground infrastructure on the Ali al-Taher Ridge on Thursday evening. “Any attempt to harm our civilians and our forces will be met with force."

Katz to Iran: Attack Israel, face a blow unlike any before

Defense Minister sends New Year wishes to Iran's Jews, warns Tehran any attack on Israel will trigger devastating response.

Katz:

‘When necessary, we’ll strike Iran a third time’

From Mount Hermon, Defense Minister Katz vows Israel will remain in the Syrian security zone and warns that Iran could face a third Israeli strike.

Defense Minister:

IDF instructed to prepare for fighting against PA officials

Defense Minister Israel Katz warns Israel to launch an all-out campaign against Palestinian Authority terror infrastructure if 'intifada' returns to Judea and Samaria.

Defense Minister:

Israel to remain in Ali al-Taher until Hezbollah disarms

Defense Minister Israel Katz says IDF cleared Hezbollah terrorists from strategic tunnels at Ali al-Taher, vows Israel will remain in Lebanon’s security zone until Hezbollah is disarmed.

Katz to Iran: Attack Israel, we’ll send you back to the Stone Age

Defense Minister Israel Katz warns Tehran that any attack will risk devastating strikes on Iran’s military, civilian and energy infrastructure.

‘Our planes are ready’

Katz warns Iran could attack on Jewish holidays

Defense Minister Israel Katz says mounting pressure on Tehran could trigger direct confrontation, stressing Israel is prepared for defense and attack in coordination with US.

New senior IDF appointments

Bar Kalifa to head Central Command

Defense Minister Israel Katz approves sweeping IDF appointments, including Dado Bar Kalifa as Central Command chief following controversy over the nomination.

Israel lands massive €3b ‘Achilles Shield’ deal with Greece

Israel to build Greece multi-layered air defense network featuring David’s Sling, BARAK MX and SPYDER in largest-ever Israel-Greece defense deal.

Katz threatens

'Ultimatum has ended, every launch will be met with force'

Defense Minister announces that the ultimatum has expired and makes clear: Every launch of balloons or kites from Gaza will be considered an act of terrorism and met with force.

‘Blood libel against IDF soldiers’

Katz demands action against former MAG

Defense Minister Israel Katz orders IDF Chief Eyal Zamir to revoke Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi’s rights and exhaust all military measures in the Sde Teiman leak case.

Exclusive:

Katz intervenes after Givati soldiers punished

Defense Minister Israel Katz vows to address controversy after yeshiva soldiers confined to base for 21 days over refusal to enter APC with female paramedic.

Katz’s message to Syrian Pres. from Mt. Hermon summit

Defense Minister visits IDF troops at the summit of Mount Hermon and sends a message to Damascus: “As long as there are threats, the IDF will remain here."

Netanyahu, Katz presented with data showing decline in terrorism

The Prime Minister and Defense Minister held a situational assessment at Central Command. Minister Katz: “The number of terrorist attacks in Judea and Samaria has fallen to levels we have never seen before."

Katz warns Hamas over Gaza kites: 'Zero tolerance'

Defense Minister Israel Katz warns Israel will respond forcefully after four kites found in Israeli territory. 'One law for balloons, kites, and drones.'

Netanyahu warns Hamas to stop Gaza drone launches or face action

Netanyahu warns Hamas that continued drone, kite and balloon launches from Gaza will trigger intensified IDF action, including strikes on launch sites and operators.

Unusual statement by Defense Minister over Shabbat

Defense Minister claims Israel warned the Syrian regime in advance against an attempt to allow Turkey to establish a presence at the Abu al-Duhur airbase.

Katz to Erdogan: Don't test Israel

Defense Minister Israel Katz warns Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan against dragging country into 'dangerous adventures' in Syria.

Chief of Staff finds new role for officer blocked from promotion

Defense Minister Israel Katz rejected a promotion for Maj. Gen. Eliad Muati. Now, IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has found a way to keep the senior officer in service.

Israel, Honduras forge deeper defense partnership

Defense Ministers Israel Katz and Enrique Rodríguez Burchard signed an agreement expanding security cooperation and strategic ties between Israel and Honduras.

Ben-Gvir:

8 top Likud figures asked to join Otzma Yehudit

Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir says four Likud ministers and four MKs approached him about joining Otzma Yehudit in light of its rising poll numbers.

US rejects Katz’s announcement of troops in southern Lebanon

The US criticizes Defense Minister Katz’s call for a long-term presence in southern Lebanon, urging adherence to the agreed security framework.

'We will not withdraw':

Katz's order to the IDF in Lebanon

Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered the IDF to prepare for a long-term stay in Lebanon, saying Israel will not withdraw from its security zones in Lebanon, Syria, or Gaza.

Likud’s late night move

Reserved spots for Sa'ar, Israel Katz and Haim Katz

Likud announces that its secretariat will be asked to approve guaranteed spots on its Knesset slate for Foreign Minister Sa'ar, Defense Minister Katz, and Central Committee chairman Haim Katz.

Opposing Defense Min.:

Maj.Gen. Avi Bluth expels Tal Yinon Dardik from Samaria

Central Command chief Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth decided, contrary to the Defense Minister’s request, to renew the administrative detention order against Tal Yinon Dardik, who is suspected of assaulting a Palestinian.

"Every allegation is investigated"

Rambam responds to accusations over treatment of wounded soldiers

Following allegations concerning the treatment of wounded soldiers, Rambam Medical Center said that every claim of inappropriate treatment is taken seriously and investigated.

Report: Defense Min. left Security Cabinet meeting for wedding

Report claims Defense Minister Israel Katz left a crucial Security Cabinet session before it concluded, leaving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asking where he had gone.

'Doing his job well'

Katz clarifies: Central Command Chief not dismissed

Defense Minister Katz tells Judea and Samaria leaders that Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth remains in his post as sides discuss security and settlement.

Katz launches: 'Finally, a right-wing Defense Minister'

Defense Minister Israel Katz unveils new campaign touting his record in office, highlighting strikes on Iran's terror network.

Katz blasts 'political campaign' over Bluth controversy

Defense Minister Israel Katz accuses critics of spreading 'outright lie' after reports claimed he sought to dismiss Central Command chief Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth, insisting the appointment of Bluth's successor had been underway for months.

Yesha Council backs both Bluth and Katz amid controversy

In the wake of the defense minister's sharp public rebuke of Maj. Gen. Bluth, Yesha Council extends its backing to both parties. 'Dismissing Bluth is a grave mistake that harms security,' says Beit El mayor Shai Alon.

On live TV:

Katz attacks Central Command chief and announces his replacement

During an interview on Channel 14, Defense Minister Israel Katz announces his decision to appoint Maj. Gen. Dado Bar Kalifa as Head of Central Command, replacing Avi Bluth.

Defense Minister

'Israel will only join attacks on Iran if Trump asks us to'

Defense Minister Israel Katz addressed security, diplomatic, and political challenges at a Likud conference in Jerusalem.

Defense Minister cancels expulsion order against farmer

Defense Minister Israel Katz instructed that an expulsion order issued against Israeli farmer Tal Yinon Dardik not be renewed.

IDF prepares to seize another Judea and Samaria 'refugee' camp

Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered the IDF to expand counterterror operations and prepare to take control of another terrorist stronghold in Judea and Samaria.

Administrative detainee Tal Yinon Dardik hospitalized

The administrative detainee Tal Yinon Dardik, who was being held at the Russian Compound detention facility, was evacuated to a hospital after he was found to have a low heart rate.

Ben Gvir: "We must return to targeted killings"

In the discussion, ministers demanded a stricter response and a change in the opening fire instructions.

'Everyone is silent'

Tal Yinon Dardik's mother protests

Mother of detained Tal Yinon Dardik speaks to Dr. Chana Katan, attacking authorities and revealing details of his hunger strike and harsh detention.

Report: Katz visits administrative detainee Yinon Dardik in jail

Defense Minister Israel Katz reportedly met with administrative detainee Yinon Dardik to ensure his safety, journalist says.

Defense Minister Katz

"If Iran attacks Israel, it will suffer a crushing blow"

Defense Minister Israel Katz held a security consultation with the Chief of Staff and senior security officials, and clarified: "We are preparing for every possibility."

Mother of Tal Yinon Derdik

"Release him before it's too late"

Baraka Derdik, the mother of Tal Yinon, who is detained under an administrative order and on a hunger strike, has asked the Defense Minister to release her son.

Hunger striking farmer denied all alternatives to detention

Tal Yinon Derdik, who has been on a hunger strike since his arrest, has rejected all detention alternatives proposed by the IDF, despite intervention by Defense Minister Israel Katz.

Katz questions surge in administrative orders

Exclusive: After complaints over administrative measures, Defense Minister Israel Katz said Tal Yinon Derdik's case exceeded reasonable limits and requires adjustment.

Katz, Sofer hold online meeting with Lone Soldier's parents

Defense Minister Israel Katz and Minister of Aliyah and Integration Ofir Sofer held a transatlantic Zoom call today with the parents of Lone Soldiers serving in the IDF.

Katz, Hegseth, hold security talks

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth updates Defense Minister Israel Katz on US military operations in Iran; Katz reaffirms Israel's determination to maintain security zones after October 7 massacre.

Elor Azaria submits request for pardon

Defense Minister Israel Katz turns to President Isaac Herzog, requesting pardon for IDF soldier Elor Azaria who was charged for killing a terrorist at the scene.

Beloved by all:

Israeli leaders mourn true friend Lindsey Graham

Defense Minister Israel Katz, President Isaac Herzog, and MKs pay tribute to Senator Lindsey Graham following his sudden death, praising his unwavering support for Israel and his longstanding role in strengthening the US-Israel alliance.

Defense Min. warns: We don't need approval to remain in Lebanon

Defense Minister Israel Katz says Israel operates in line with its strategic interests, will continue to make decisions on Lebanon security zone independently.