Israel launches “preemptive strike” against Iran, defense minister says video

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced that Israel had carried out what he described as a preemptive strike against Iran, warning that retaliatory attacks could follow.

According to the Israeli outlet Ynet News, Katz stated: “Israel launched a preemptive strike against Iran to eliminate threats to the state.” He added that “as a result, a missile and drone strike against Israel and its civilian population is expected in the near future.”

In response to the anticipated escalation, Katz declared a nationwide state of emergency. Acting under his authority in accordance with the Civil Defence Law, he signed a special order introducing emergency measures across Israel’s home front.

🇮🇱🇮🇷 Министр обороны Израиля Исраэль Кац объявил, что «Израиль нанес упреждающий удар по Ирану»,сообщает израильский сайт Ynet News.

Кац объявил чрезвычайное положение на всей территории страны.

«Израиль нанес упреждающий удар по Ирану, чтобы устранить угрозы в адрес… pic.twitter.com/jBXyzWLXwW

— Caliber (@Caliberaz) February 28, 2026

Reports carried by UNIAN indicated that security measures were being reinforced near strategically important facilities. Images circulating on social media allegedly show Iron Dome air defense batteries deployed near the Knesset building. There have also been reports that public shelters are being opened and civil defense services placed on high alert, although no official statements have yet confirmed details of a specific military operation.

The heightened security posture comes amid statements from Tehran warning of a “tough and decisive response” to actions by Israel and the United States in the region. Iranian authorities had earlier repeatedly signalled readiness to launch missile and drone strikes in the event of further escalation.

At the same time, warning signals have emerged from Washington. The US State Department has ordered the evacuation of some diplomats and their family members from the embassy in Jerusalem and advised American citizens to leave Israel immediately, citing the risk of escalation and the possibility of an Iranian retaliatory strike.

By Tamilla Hasanova