Tel aviv: Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz claimed Tuesday that US warplanes are taking off from Israel to carry out attacks on Iran. "US fighter jets are taking off from Israel to launch attacks on Iran, and the Iranians know that," Katz told Channel 14.

According to Anadolu Agency, Katz revealed that Israel intends to target Iranian energy facilities, a plan currently opposed by Washington. "We strongly want to attack Iranian energy targets, but the US does not agree to that at this stage," Katz stated, warning of a strong retaliatory strike should Iran initiate hostilities. "If they fire at Israel, we will respond with full force. We are ready to strike Iran independently."

Iran has yet to respond to Katz's provocative remarks. Katz further asserted that US President Donald Trump understands Israel's stance on maintaining control over "buffer zones" in Lebanon, Gaza, and Syria. "We know how to manage things. We are ready," Katz declared, referencing a drone incident earlier Tuesday, which was intercepted near the Jordanian border after being launched from Iraq.

Discussing the Gaza Strip, Katz mentioned his recent visit to the area. "We destroyed Gaza above and below ground," he commented. On the issue of illegal settlements in Gaza, Katz suggested that any decision would depend on Hamas' adherence to the ceasefire agreement.

Israel commenced its military offensive in Gaza on October 8, 2023, with backing from the US, resulting in over 73,000 Palestinian deaths and more than 174,000 injuries, predominantly affecting women and children. Despite a ceasefire agreement effective from October 10, 2025, Israel has persisted with daily assaults, causing 1,207 Palestinian deaths and 3,914 injuries, as reported by Gaza's Health Ministry.