Israeli Defense Minister Warns of Possible War with Iran 'Tomorrow' Amid Fragile Ceasefire and US-Iran Talks

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated in a Monday briefing with military and diplomatic reporters that Israel could find itself at war with Iran 'tomorrow' or within two days if Tehran launches missiles at Israeli territory. Katz emphasized that the IDF has been ordered to prepare for an independent 'blue-and-white' operation against Iran, with pre-selected targets ready, though Israel would not interfere with ongoing US presidential moves vis-à-vis Tehran. He outlined two primary scenarios for renewed full-scale fighting: a decision by President Donald Trump or direct Iranian missile fire. Katz also reiterated Israel's policy of striking Beirut's southern suburb of Dahiyeh in response to any Hezbollah rocket attacks on northern Israel, linking potential Iranian involvement to operations in Lebanon. These comments come amid reports of US-Iran technical negotiations continuing in Qatar, including discussions related to the Strait of Hormuz, and follow prior rounds of direct Israel-Iran exchanges. Katz's warnings highlight Israel's readiness to act unilaterally despite reliance on US air defenses, while broader regional dynamics include a newly signed Israel-Lebanon agreement described by Katz as a 'strategic blow to the Iranian axis.' The statements align with ongoing tensions involving Hezbollah, southern Lebanon operations, and potential energy market volatility tied to Hormuz disruptions.