Israel Katz

Defense Minister urges Iranians to take to the streets

'Global and regional struggle against Iran is escalating, final stretch to their defeat will continue as long as necessary,' Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz promises.

The Defense Minister's dire warning to Lebanese leaders

Defense Minister in situational assessment: "The destruction of the bridge over the Litani is just the beginning. Lebanon failed to dismantle Hezbollah and will pay an increasing price."

Defense Minister threatens: We'll conquer areas of Lebanon

'If Lebanese government cannot control the area and prevent Hezbollah from firing towards Israel, we will do it ourselves," Defense Minister Israel Katz warns.

Defense Min.: Iran’s leadership 'fleeing like rats into tunnels'

Defense Minister Israel Katz says operation against Iran will continue without time limits, as Israeli and US forces intensify strikes on Revolutionary Guard and Basij targets across the country.

Investigation:

Who leaked Iran attack plans to Israeli TV?

Defense Minister Israel Katz said the security establishment has opened an investigation after the planned timing of the Iran strike was reportedly leaked to media.

Defense Minister in the North

'Opportunity to strike Hezbollah'

The Minister of Defense was informed of the assassination of the commander of Hezbollah's "Naser" unit and of the massive movement of over a million Lebanese who abandoned the southern part of the country.

Defense Minister in a message to the residents of the north

Defense Minister Israel Katz held a security assessment at and said residents of northern Israel should not leave their homes, IDF has reinforced forces inside enemy territory and expanded to additional positions it captured.

US backing: Continue to the end, we're with you

US-Israel cooperation against Iran Is changing history, Defense Minister Israel Katz tells US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.

Minister Katz reveals:

Iran operation moved up months ahead of schedule

Defense Minister Israel Katz says the Iran operation was originally planned for mid-year but was advanced due to developments and US coordination.

Defense Minister:

Any successor to Khameini is a target

Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that any leader appointed by the Iranian regime will be a target for elimination.

Defense Minister: We have severed the head of the Iranian octopus

Defense Minister Israel Katz responds to joint US-Israel strikes on Iran: 'We severed the head of the Iranian octopus, and now we are acting to crush and cut off its tentacles.'

Defense Min.:

Those who follow Khamenei's footsteps end up like him

Defense Minister Israel Katz visits Air Force Operations Center, warns Hezbollah leader that he will follow Iran's Supreme leader to 'the bottom of hell.'

Defense Minister: Hezbollah chief now a marked target

Defense Minister Israel Katz warns Hezbollah will pay a 'heavy price,' terror group's Secretary-General Naim Qassem now a target marked for elimination.

Defense Minister:

Any enemy who tries to interfere will pay a heavy price

Defense Minister Israel Katz stresses goal of Iran strike to remove 'immediate threat' to Israel's security, global and regional stability.

How Hamas works to incite unrest - from Turkey

Defense Minister Israel Katz signs order designating Hamas-linked networks as terror groups to curb online incitement during Ramadan.

1st time since 1967

Cabinet approves renewal of land registration in Yesha

The government has approved the proposal by Ministers Levin, Smotrich, and Katz to renew land registration procedures in Judea and Samaria after decades.

Cabinet moves to change legal statuses in Judea and Samaria

The cabinet approved a series of significant decisions affecting the settlements that change the legal and civil reality in Judea and Samaria, led by Defense Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.

Chief of Staff appoints special envoy to the Pentagon

While Defense Minister Katz is blocking the appointment of the military attaché in Washington, IDF Chief of Staff Zamir has appointed a special envoy for security coordination with the US.

Cabinet expands benefits for reservists by NIS 6 billion

The government has approved an aid and benefits plan for reserve service members for the coming year, totaling 6.2 billion shekels.

Defense Minister orders immediate enforcement for burning garbage

Amendment to security order to prevent burning garbage signed, allowing aggressive enforcement.

Israel declares Iranian bank a terrorist organization

The Minister of Defense has signed a declaration against Iran’s Bank Melli, which serves as a key conduit for transferring funds to the Revolutionary Guards and the Quds Force.

Western Wall stone returned to Jerusalem

Defense Minister Israel Katz orders that a stone from the Western Wall, placed at the Kirya military complex in Tel Aviv, to be transferred to a designated geniza site alongside other Western Wall stones.

Defense Minister intensifies war against burning garbage

Amendment to security order to allow improved enforcement, deter environmental offenders.

10/7 in Judea and Samaria

Defense Minister's warning: Prepare for an attack

Defense Minister Israel Katz said sustained IDF operations cut terror by over 80%, ordering preparations for possible October 7-style attacks in Judea and Samaria.

First time in 25 years:

Historic: Jews to be allowed at Joseph's Tomb even during daytime

Defense Minister Israel Katz approves Jewish visitors to Joseph's Tomb during daylight hours, in first since the year 2000.

Security forces seal Beit She'an terrorist's house

Dozens of suspects from the terrorist's city were arrested for questioning, and his house was sealed as a prelude to demolition.

Following double terror attack: IDF prepares to enter Qabatiya

Beit She'an terrorist identified as 37-year-old Ahmad al-Roub, a 37-year-old Qabatiya resident, Defense Minister orders Qabatiya terror infrastructure decimated.

Defense Minister:

'Israel will never leave the territory of Gaza'

Minister Israel Katz assured that even after returning the Gaza Strip to Arab control, Israel will continue to hold a buffer zone inside the enclave.

Netanyahu warns Iran:

'We do not seek confrontations, but we remain vigilant'

Thirty-five new aircrew members received their wings at Hatzerim Airbase as Israel’s leaders praised the Air Force’s central role in defending the nation during ongoing regional challenges.

Katz is not waiting

Dozens of IDF radio presenters suspended

Dozens of Galei Tzahal and Galgalatz presenters, who are employed as consultants, were notified that they will be suspended from January 1st.

Defense Minister approves new appointments in IDF leadership

Defense Minister Israel Katz approved the appointments of Brig. Gen. Omer Tishler and Maj. Gen. Eyal Harel as commanders of the Air Force and the Navy.

'No settlements in Gaza

Defense Minister walks back comments on Gaza communities

Defense Minister Israel Katz walks back statement that Israel will establish youth communities based on the IDF in Gaza.

Government approves the closure of Galei Tzahal radio

The government unanimously approved this morning Defense Minister Israel Katz's proposal to close the Galei Tzahal radio station.

Preparing for prosecution

Who will judge the Nukhba Terrorists?

The Ministers of Defense and Justice led a discussion on prosecuting the Nukhba terrorists after the October 7 massacre and explored the possibility of establishing a dedicated military tribunal.

Pollard to PM, Defense Minister:

'Approve raising of Israeli flag in Nisanit tomorrow'

Jonathan Pollard says raising the Israeli flag in Nisanit on Hanukkah will show strength, hope, and Israel’s resolve against its enemies.

Defense Ministry moves strategic projects to Jerusalem

An agreement signed today between the Ministry of Defense and the Jerusalem Municipality will regulate the transfer of security infrastructures and strategic projects to the capital.

"אתם המכבים החדשים"

Israel Katz lights first Hanukkah candle with injured soldiers

Defense Minister Israel Katz visits Sheba Medical Center, offering encouragement and support to injured IDF soldiers and their families, and promising to support them throughout their journey.

Defense Minister, Chief of Staff

Agreement to consolidate October 7 investigations

Defense Minister Israel Katz and IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir agreed to join their separate probes into the failures of October 7. Defense Comptroller to join as observer/

Defense Min. blocks promotion of 'Brothers in Arms' officer

Minister Israel Katz says 'anyone who promotes refusal to serve won't advance in the IDF.'

Agreements reached:

Defense budget for 2026 set at 112 billion shekels

After late-night discussions, a defense budget of 112 billion shekels was agreed upon. The Prime Minister decided that the defense budget will increase by 350 billion shekels over the next decade.

Defense Min. visits soldiers wounded in Hamas ceasefire violation

Defense Minister Israel Katz visits IDF soldiers wounded in Hamas' violation of Gaza ceasefire, offering support and promising to destroy Hamas.

Itai Ofir assumes role of Military Advocate General

Attorney Itai Ofir enters his new post as Military Advocate General during a ceremony at the Kirya, as senior officials highlight the challenges facing the IDF and the imperative of restoring public trust.

Military secretary involved in sensitive security misstep

The IDF confirmed that Brig. Gen. Guy Markizeno’s classified cellphone was stolen and remotely neutralized, but then-Minister Yoav Gallant was never informed despite the sensitivity of the case.

Defense Minister clarifies: No administrative detentions

Defense Minister Israel Katz, lawmakers clash over administrative detentions of Jews.

Netanyahu attempts to resolve crisis between Chief of Staff, DM

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intervenes in the escalating crisis between Defense Minister Israel Katz and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir.

'There will be no cover-up':

Defense Minister's associates criticize the Chief of Staff

People close to Defense Minister Israel Katz say additional measures will be taken against senior IDF officers following the investigations into the October 7th massacre.

Zamir slams Defense Minister’s move to halt IDF appointments

The IDF Chief of Staff’s office issued a rare rebuke of Defense Minister Katz, accusing him of politicizing the Turgeman Report and harming military readiness by freezing appointments.

PM, ministers condemn riot, arson in Judea and Samaria

Defense Minister Israel Katz expressed full support for the Central Command chief and called for strict action against the rioters involved in the arson and vandalism in an Arab village.

Defense Minister clarifies

'A Palestinian state will not be established'

Minister Israel Katz responded this morning to the American proposal to the UN that includes steps that facilitate the future establishment of a Palestinian state.

Defense Minister Katz

'Soldiers should serve in the IDF, not in a broadcasting station'

Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that the proposed resolution to close Galei Tzahal will be submitted to the government for approval in the coming weeks and that there is 'no going back.'

Defense Minister orders closure of Galei Zahal radio station

Defense Minister Israel Katz decides to close Galei Zahal radio station; broadcasts will cease by March 1, 2026.

Defense Minister appoints Itai Ofir as MAG amid PM’s objections

Adv. Itai Ofir will assume the role of Military Advocate General despite reported opposition from Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office.

Katz to Erdogan:

'You’ll only see Gaza through binoculars'

Defense Minister Israel Katz blasts Erdogan after Turkey issued arrest warrants for 37 Israeli officials: Take your ridiculous warrants and leave.

Security Cabinet discussion:

IDF Chief opposes deporting Rafah terrorists

Security Cabinet convenes to discuss developments across the combat zones. Chief of Staff Zamir on “trapped” Rafah terrorists: They should be killed, not deported.

Defense Minister declares war on drone smuggling

Defense Minister Israel Katz declares area near Egypt-Israel border to be closed military zone, changes open-fire protocols and classification of drone smuggling threat.

New MAG

Minister Israel Katz clarifies appointment to Likud members

Minister Israel Katz responds to criticism over the appointment of Itai Ofir as MAG: An excellent candidate who supported settlement efforts - even when bureaucrats opposed them.

Defense Min. appoints Adv. Itai Ofir as Military Advocate General

Defense Minister Yisrael Katz announces the appointment of Adv. Itai Ofir as the new Military Advocate General, replacing Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, who was removed from her position.

Minister Katz clarifies:

Military Advocate General was dismissed, her rank will be revoked

Defense Minister Katz stresses again that he dismissed Military Advocate General Tomer-Yerushalmi over her role in the Sde Teiman leak, after she submitted a resignation letter.

Defense Minister fires Military Advocate General

Defense Minister Israel Katz says Military Advocate General Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi will be removed from her position, promises to bring everyone involved in Sde Teiman 'blood libel' to justice.

Red Cross banned from visiting Nukhba terrorists

Following recommendation from ISA, Defense Minister Israel Katz signs bill banning Red Cross representatives from visiting Hamas Nukhba terrorists imprisoned in Israel.