Israel's defence chief warns strikes on Iran could resume soon

On April 30, Israel Katz, Israel’s defence minister, warned that Israel may soon resume military action against Iran, signalling that the campaign against Tehran is not yet over despite what he described as significant setbacks to its military capabilities.

Speaking at a ceremony promoting the incoming Israeli Air Force commander, Katz said Iran had been pushed back but suggested further operations could follow, Caliber.Az reports via US media.

"Iran has suffered extremely severe blows over the past year, blows that set it back years in every field," Katz said.

Still, Katz’s remarks indicated Israeli leaders do not consider the confrontation resolved.

"We support this effort and provide the necessary backing, but it is possible that soon we will be required to act again to ensure the achievement of those goals," Katz said.

The comments came alongside a sharp increase in Israeli military logistics activity. Israel’s defence ministry said two cargo ships had docked in Ashdod and Haifa, while multiple transport aircraft had arrived within 24 hours carrying about 6,500 tonnes of military equipment, including munitions and combat vehicles.

Since the start of what Israel calls Operation Roaring Lion, more than 115,600 tonnes of military equipment have reportedly been delivered via hundreds of flights and maritime shipments, according to Israeli figures.

The buildup comes amid continued regional tensions and follows signals from Washington that pressure on Tehran will be sustained. According to Axios, Donald Trump said, "The blockade stays until there’s a real deal".

Military analyst Maj. Gen. (ret.) Yaakov Amidror, a former Israeli national security adviser, said Washington and Jerusalem were weighing two possible trajectories.

"Israel and the United States are seriously preparing for two real options, and the decision, when it comes, could be made very quickly," Amidror said. "One is to continue the siege, a blockade that can slowly exhaust Iran. The other is war."

He added that US military preparations suggested contingency planning for escalation.

"The Americans are building logistics, moving forces, and preparing very seriously," he said. "At some point, they may feel they are so ready that leadership says, ‘We are prepared, let’s go.’"

Amidror also said Israel could move faster if the conflict resumes.

"For Israel, it is easier," Amidror said. "We need less logistics. We are already in the region, rebuilding strength, improving intelligence and accumulating power while Iran’s capabilities are being weakened."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was shown alongside Katz in official imagery from the defence ministry.

Amid the heightened rhetoric, Iran’s mission to the United Nations declined to comment.

By Aghakazim Guliyev