Israel's defense minister warns Iranian leaders of same fate as Khamenei

JERUSALEM — Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz warned Iranian leaders that they would share the fate of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei if they attempt to destroy Israel. In remarks to Bloomberg, Katz said Khamenei was killed because he planned and directed efforts to eliminate Israel, and that any future Iranian leader who adopts similar plans would also be targeted. Katz argued that "death to Trump" chants at Khamenei's funeral exposed the true nature of the Iranian regime. He said Israeli and U.S. strikes had removed what he described as an existential threat to Israel and dealt a heavy blow to Iran's strategic capabilities. The defense minister added that Israel stands ready to defend itself independently against any potential future threats. No further details on the timing or scope of any future operations were provided.