At a pilot graduation ceremony on Thursday, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning to Iran, declaring that Israel would not hesitate to strike with greater force if Tehran resumes what he described as “destructive behavior.” Speaking against the backdrop of recent tensions following Operation Rising Lion, Katz said Israel’s military reach remains poised and ready.

“The graduation ceremony here is a direct message to dictator Khamenei and the group of ayatollahs in Iran: Israel's long arm will reach you in Tehran, Tabriz, Isfahan, and any place from which you try to threaten and harm Israel,” Katz stated. “There is no place where you can hide. If we need to return, we will, and with even greater force.”

Air Power as Strategic Deterrent

President Isaac Herzog also addressed the ceremony, emphasizing the Israeli Air Force’s proven effectiveness as a cornerstone of national defense and regional stability. “The power of the Israeli Air Force, which has been proven beyond any doubt, should lay the foundation for changing the reality in the region, a foundation for a better future for us and for our neighbors in the Middle East,” he said.

Herzog also referenced the domestic controversy surrounding Air Force personnel during Israel’s internal judicial reform crisis in 2023. “I truly wish and hope—there will be those who will have the wisdom to apologize for the offensive and unnecessary criticism that was made in the heat of the public debate,” he added, calling for national unity in the face of external threats.

Background: Renewed Iran-Israel Tensions

The remarks come weeks after Israel and the United States conducted joint strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in Operation Rising Lion. While Iran did not retaliate militarily in full force, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and senior officials have since vowed revenge and rejected diplomatic overtures.

The Israeli government has maintained a high alert posture amid warnings of potential Iranian reprisals or renewed regional proxy activity.