Israel Readies Strike if Iran Attacks During High Holidays

Israel has signaled its readiness for a potential military strike against Iran, with senior officials warning that any attack on Israeli territory during the upcoming Jewish High Holidays would trigger a decisive and independent response. The warnings come amid a period of heightened regional tension, as Iran and the United States have engaged in a series of retaliatory strikes over the past week. Defense Minister Israel Katz stated on Wednesday that Israel is prepared for a possible Iranian attack during the holiday season, which begins with Rosh Hashanah on the evening of September 11. Speaking at a conference, Katz said Israeli forces are conducting continuous assessments and are prepared both defensively and offensively. "If they attack us, we will respond with great force, independently of anyone else," Katz said. He added that the Israeli Air Force is ready to act immediately, regardless of any pretext Iran might use, such as the conflicts in Lebanon or Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reinforced this stance during a visit to Sderot on Wednesday.