As tensions between Israel and Iran enter a dangerous new phase, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning on Saturday, declaring that the Iranian capital, Tehran, could face devastating consequences if Iran continues to launch missiles at Israeli territory.
The threat came amid a second consecutive day of hostilities between the two longtime adversaries. In a strongly worded statement, Katz accused Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, of endangering his own people by escalating the conflict.
“The Iranian dictator is turning the citizens of Iran into hostages,” Katz said. “He is creating a reality where they — especially the residents of Tehran — will pay a heavy price for the criminal attacks against Israeli civilians.”
Katz’s remarks follow a wave of missile and drone attacks that both nations have exchanged since Friday, raising fears of a broader regional war. Although Israel’s advanced missile defense systems have intercepted the majority of incoming threats, several projectiles have reportedly reached Israeli territory, causing damage and casualties.
“If Khamenei continues to fire missiles toward the Israeli home front — Tehran will burn,” Katz warned, signaling that any further aggression from Iran could provoke a catastrophic response.
This is one of the most severe threats issued by a senior Israeli official in the current round of confrontations and reflects the rising volatility in the Middle East. While both sides claim to be acting in self-defense, international observers are concerned that the conflict could spill beyond the two countries, potentially drawing in regional powers and global actors.
Despite calls for restraint from the United Nations and several world governments, neither side has shown signs of backing down. Analysts warn that the current tit-for-tat could spiral into a full-scale war unless diplomatic channels are urgently reopened.
