Fresh tensions have emerged between Israel and Iran after Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz issued new warnings against Iran’s leadership during ongoing funeral ceremonies for former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
According to Israeli media reports, Katz claimed Israel had targeted Khamenei because of what he described as threats to Israel’s security. He also warned that Israel would act against any future Iranian leader who follows the same path, saying the country is prepared to respond to any threat at any time.
His remarks came after earlier reports that he had threatened Iran’s current Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. The comments drew a strong reaction from Tehran, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warning that any threat against Iran’s leadership or its people would receive an immediate and powerful response.
Meanwhile, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran continues to have serious differences with the United States despite the recently signed memorandum of understanding between the two countries. He described implementation of the agreement as difficult but possible.
Speaking during separate meetings with delegations from Hamas and Hezbollah in Tehran, Ghalibaf said Iran would continue supporting what it calls the “Axis of Resistance.” He added that negotiations with Washington should only continue if they produce meaningful results and protect the interests of regional countries.
Ghalibaf also said Iran had insisted that issues relating to Lebanon’s sovereignty and the end of military operations against its regional allies be included in discussions with the United States. He stressed that lasting peace in Lebanon could not be achieved without Iran’s involvement.
At the same time, military activity continued in southern Lebanon despite a ceasefire framework agreed last month. Lebanese media reported that Israeli forces demolished several houses in the border town of Aitaroun and carried out explosions in Houla. Israeli drones were also seen flying over Beirut’s southern suburbs.
Israeli and Lebanese military officials have reportedly started indirect talks under US mediation to prepare for a phased Israeli withdrawal from parts of southern Lebanon. The discussions are aimed at coordinating security arrangements before Lebanese forces take control of the designated areas.
Israeli officials said the withdrawal will begin only after the Lebanese Army confirms it is ready to deploy and maintain security in the border region. The talks are also focused on preventing the presence of armed groups in areas from which Israeli forces are expected to withdraw.
