Israeli defense minister says military prepared for renewed war with Iran

TEL AVIV, Israel — JERUSEM — Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said the country is preparing for a renewed round of war with Iran, announcing that the military has been ordered to prepare for an operation codenamed "Blue and White." Katz told reporters that Israel could find itself at war with Iran "tomorrow" and warned that any Iranian missile attack on Israeli territory would trigger a strong response. The defense minister said the Israeli military remains on alert and that Tel Aviv has briefed the U.S. administration on its posture. He noted that Iran still retains missile stockpiles and launch capacity, adding that the army is prepared on both defensive and offensive levels. According to Katz, fighting could resume if U.S. President Donald Trump decides to halt negotiations and resume strikes, or if Iran attacks Israel. He said additional protective measures would be taken for the home front if needed.