Daijiworld Media Network - Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Jul 23: Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has asserted that the country is nearing a decisive moment in the war in Gaza and must press forward to secure a "complete victory" in all remaining conflict zones.

Speaking during a strategic multi-front assessment alongside military chief Eyal Zamir and senior defence officials, Katz outlined Israel’s current priorities — with Gaza and Yemen identified as the final active theatres in the ongoing conflict.

“We are at the closest point to achieving the war’s objectives,” Katz declared, according to a statement from his office. “Two active fronts remain — Gaza and Yemen — and we must act decisively to ensure full victory in both.”

His comments came as ceasefire talks resumed in Doha, Qatar, where Israeli media reported notable progress earlier in the day. Despite the negotiations, Katz emphasized that the return of all Israeli hostages and the dismantling of Hamas remain non-negotiable goals.

The Defence Minister also raised alarms over the possibility of renewed hostilities with Iran, calling for sustained vigilance and a firm strategy to prevent Tehran from rebuilding its nuclear and missile infrastructure following last month’s brief military confrontation.

In a broader regional context, Katz defended Israel’s continued military presence at key control points and security zones in Syria and Lebanon, calling them essential for the protection of Israeli border communities.

He further confirmed that Israeli forces would remain deployed inside refugee camps in the West Bank, and if the situation demands, operations may extend to other areas as well.

Katz’s comments reflect the Israeli government’s hardline stance even as diplomatic efforts to de-escalate intensify. With battlefield operations, hostage negotiations, and regional tensions all in flux, Israel’s next steps could have far-reaching consequences across the Middle East.