Defense Minister Israel Katz to members of the General Staff Forum before the attack on Iran

DM Israel Katz

This is a defining moment in the history of the State of Israel and the history of the Jewish people.

Tonight, the IDF is launching an operation against the head of the Iranian octopus to thwart its capabilities and remove the threat of destruction from the State of Israel.

Upon taking office, I defined as my highest goal the thwarting of the Iranian nuclear program.

Iran is more determined than ever to realize its vision of destroying Israel.

We are at a key point where, if we miss it, we will have no way to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons that will threaten our existence.

We have dealt with Iran’s proxies over the past year and a half, but now we are dealing with the head of the snake itself.

Over the years, and especially over the past few months, the IDF has built exceptional capabilities in the fields of intelligence and operations – in defense and offense – that enable us to cope well with the great challenges facing us.

I have closely followed the preparations and progress, the difficulties and finding solutions, and the decision-making process – and I am full of appreciation for the capabilities that have been accumulated so far and the IDF’s high ability to implement them.

Chief of Staff, I trust you and this forum, and the entire State of Israel trusts you and prays for your success. Israel’s security at the front and in the rear rests on your shoulders.

There will be many challenges and difficulties – but I am convinced that together with your leadership and commitment and that of all branches of the IDF – and with a strong and united rear – we will prevail.