Jerusalem, 18 March, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that Israel is poised to unleash further “significant surprises” across multiple fronts, signaling an impending escalation in its war against Iran and Hezbollah on Wednesday. He also confirmed the death of Iran’s intelligence minister.
Speaking during a situation assessment with senior defense officials, Katz said, “During this day, significant surprises are expected in all arenas that will escalate the war we are waging against Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon.”
“The intensity of the attacks in Iran is increasing,” he insisted. “We are in the midst of a decisive victory.”
Katz also said that Iran’s intelligence minister, Esmaeil Khatib, was killed during an overnight airstrike in Tehran, describing him as a central figure in the regime’s internal repression and external operations.
He said the killing followed the recent assassinations of senior Iranian figures, including top regime officials and leaders linked to the Basij militia.
Outlining a shift in policy, Katz said Israel would expand its targeting authority. “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I have authorized the IDF to thwart any senior Iranian official who is a target, whether intelligence or operational, without the need for additional authorization,” he said.
“Israeli policy is clear and unequivocal: no one in Iran has immunity, and everyone is in the crosshairs.”
The announcement came one day after Israel confirmed killing Ali Larijani, Iran’s de facto leader.