Israeli Defense Minister: US Pursuing Iran Deal Focused on American Interests; Israel Vows to Retain Security Zones

JERUSALEM (VINnews) – Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said the United States is advancing an agreement with Iran centered on American interests, including preventing the Islamic Republic from obtaining nuclear weapons, while Israel expects the deal to also address missiles and Tehran’s terror proxies.

Katz noted that joint actions by Israel and the U.S. have significantly degraded Iran’s capabilities, setting them back by many years. He stressed that Israel must preserve its independent ability to act against any Iranian nuclear threat.

“Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I have instructed the IDF to prepare accordingly,” Katz said in a statement Friday.

Israel will not withdraw from security zones it established in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza, Katz said. The Israel Defense Forces will continue defending Israel’s borders and citizens from the peak of Mount Hermon through the mountains of Lebanon, areas in the Samaria region and most of the territory of Gaza against threats from jihadist forces.

“The IDF will not withdraw from the terrorist camps in northern Samaria, which have been evacuated of residents, and if necessary, the operation will be expanded to additional terrorist camps,” he added.

Katz outlined Israel’s security doctrine as one that confronts both near and distant threats and seeks decisive outcomes rather than compromises.

“Much is at stake in this period, and we are determined to continue leading a firm security policy that will prevent harm to our security achievements and will not endanger our ability to fight against the Shiite axis of evil led by Iran and the Sunni axis of evil led by the Muslim Brotherhood,” Katz said.

He expressed appreciation to the IDF command, soldiers in the regular forces, standing army and reserves for their achievements, and to residents of the north for their steadfastness.

Katz also sent condolences to bereaved families and wishes for recovery to the wounded.

The comments come amid ongoing regional tensions following Israeli military operations against Iranian-backed groups and efforts to shape post-conflict arrangements in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria.