Daijiworld Media Network – Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Jul 24: Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz on Thursday warned that Iran would face a "crushing blow" if it launched an attack on Israel, following a high-level security meeting attended by the country's top military and defence officials.

"We are preparing for every possibility. If Iran attacks Israel, it will suffer a crushing blow," Katz said after the consultation.

The meeting was attended by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff Lt Gen Eyal Zamir, Defence Ministry Director-General Maj Gen (Retd) Amir Baram, the Israeli Air Force commander, senior intelligence officials, the head of the Home Front Command and other senior defence personnel.

According to Israeli media reports, the meeting reviewed Israel's military preparedness, including offensive capabilities, air defence systems, intelligence assessments and civilian protection measures.

Katz did not indicate whether the consultation was prompted by any specific intelligence warning.

Meanwhile, reports citing Western intelligence assessments suggested Iran could attempt to draw Israel into a fresh military confrontation and may even consider launching a pre-emptive strike.

The reports said the assessment was based on the perception that Israel is reluctant to return to full-scale conflict and that Tehran may seek to exploit perceived strains in Israel-US relations.

However, the intelligence assessments have not been independently verified, and there has been no official confirmation of an imminent Iranian attack.

Israeli officials have repeatedly expressed concern in recent months over the possibility of renewed hostilities with Iran.

In May, Israeli intelligence reportedly warned that Iran could be preparing a surprise missile and drone attack targeting Israel and Gulf nations.

In June, IDF Chief Lt Gen Zamir said the military was fully prepared for any potential Iranian aggression and warned that Israel was ready to respond with force if necessary.

Israeli defence officials have also maintained that Tehran is attempting to take advantage of what it perceives as Washington's reluctance to resume military action in the region.

Thursday's security consultation comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with Israel continuing to strengthen its military readiness for both defensive operations and possible retaliatory action in the event of an attack.