“We Won’t Allow Anyone to Harm Israel”
“Israel must be capable of defending itself independently against any threat and any enemy,” Katz said. “That’s how we’ve always operated, and that’s how we will continue to operate.” He warned that “the Houthis will be hit hard if they continue firing at us. The IDF is ready for any mission.”
Katz directed a sharp warning to Iran’s leadership, which he accused of funding, arming, and directing the Houthi terror group. “The proxy model is finished. The axis of evil has collapsed. You bear direct responsibility. What we did to Hezbollah in Beirut, to Hamas in Gaza, to Assad in Damascus, and to the Houthis in Yemen—we will do to you in Tehran. We won’t allow anyone to harm Israel—and those who do will pay dearly.”
Concerns Over U.S. Policy Shift
Israeli officials voiced concern over the potential fallout from Trump’s decision, particularly the possibility that the Houthis will interpret it as a green light to intensify their attacks on Israel. Security sources expressed disappointment that Minister Ron Dermer, Israel’s key liaison to the U.S. administration, was not involved in the move and gave no advance warning about the announcement, which reportedly caught Jerusalem off guard.
There is also worry that the end of U.S. airstrikes may shift the regional power balance in Iran’s favor. “The Houthis believe Trump’s decision gives them legitimacy to continue attacking Israel,” one senior security source told N12.
According to diplomatic officials, while the U.S. has pledged continued support for Israeli air defense, it has clarified it will not resume offensive operations against the Houthis on Israel’s behalf.
Houthi Response and the Iran Factor
The New York Times reported overnight that Iran pressured the Houthis to accept a ceasefire deal with the U.S., following diplomatic efforts mediated by Oman. However, senior Houthi figures have not backed down, reaffirming their commitment to support Gaza “whatever the cost.”
Israeli assessments suggest the American policy shift could alter the strategic balance in the Middle East and offer Iran a diplomatic advantage in ongoing nuclear negotiations. Defense Minister Katz reiterated that Israel will continue to respond with strength to any threat: “We won’t allow anyone to harm Israel—and those who do will pay dearly.”
