Israel's Katz Threatens Houthi Leader and Vows No Lebanese Return to South

Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a direct threat Wednesday against the Houthi movement's leader, warning that the organization will pay a heavy price for its actions against Israel. "If their leader gets in our crosshairs, we will eliminate him," Katz said during an address at the Conference of the Center for Local Government. He added that "Israel's account with the Houthis is open."

Israel's defense establishment has also begun updating operational plans for possible renewed military action in Yemen, with those plans described as ready for execution pending authorization from the political echelon.

The Houthis launched missiles toward Israel earlier this month amid rising tensions with Iran. The launch was intercepted with no damage or casualties reported. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Sarea claimed responsibility, stating that missiles had been fired at "sensitive targets in Jaffa." The group then announced a total ban on Israeli vessels in the Red Sea, declaring any Israeli movement there a military target.

The current tensions follow the Houthis' involvement during Operation "Lion's Roar," which included a naval blockade and nine rocket and drone launches. The organization claimed to have used cruise and ballistic missiles in those attacks, all of which were intercepted by Israeli Air Force aerial defense systems. Israel did not respond militarily at the time.

On the Lebanese front, Katz took an equally firm stance, declaring that Israel will not withdraw from southern Lebanese territory even if explicitly demanded by the American administration, and that around 200,000 displaced Lebanese residents will not be permitted to return to villages in the south. "We are not allowing it - soldiers inside, residents outside," he said. Katz argued that past experience showed civilian presence in those areas had served as cover for terrorist activity against Israeli forces, and noted that infrastructure in southern Lebanon has been destroyed. He said the Israeli military would continue to hold its positions to prevent a recurrence of security threats.