Israeli defense minister: Confrontation with Iran ‘not over yet’

Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant warned on Sunday that the conflict with Iran is not yet resolved, following Iran’s missile and drone attack on Israel the previous night. Gallant praised the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for their effective defense against the attack, emphasizing the minimal damage caused as a result of their actions. He encouraged all Israelis to stay vigilant and follow any directives issued by the IDF and Homefront Command, highlighting the need for readiness under any circumstances.

Gallant, a key member of Israel’s war cabinet which also includes Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Benny Gantz, remarked on the collective defense efforts with the United States and other allies, which helped protect Israeli territory. This small group has the authority to determine how Israel will respond to the Iranian aggression, as confirmed by an Israeli official to CNN.

In a statement on Saturday, Netanyahu assured the nation that Israel had anticipated the possibility of a direct attack from Iran and was prepared to handle any situation defensively or offensively. He reiterated Israel’s stance of retaliation against any threats, stating, “Whoever harms us, we will harm them,” and emphasized a strategic and resolute approach to national defense.