Katz: Caretaker gov't fully responsible for Israel's security, taking actions against terror groups

Katz's statement follows a letter from Yashar's Eisenkot calling on PM Netanyahu to exercise greater caution and responsibility in security and national decisions until a new government is formed.

Defense Minister Israel Katz reaffirmed on Thursday that the current government remains fully responsible for Israel's security, despite its caretaker status, in a post on X/Twitter.

"There is one prime minister, one defense minister who directs the IDF, and one government responsible for making all decisions concerning Israel's security and the protection of its citizens, naturally subject to the existing and necessary oversight," Katz said.

His statement comes amid discussions in Israel and Washington over the possibility of renewed military action against Iran.

It also follows a letter from Yashar party leader Gadi Eisenkot, who has been tasked with forming the next government, urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to exercise greater caution and responsibility in security and national decisions until a new government is formed.

Eisenkot also appealed to Attorney-General Gali Baharav-Miara to intervene and ensure the prime minister receives regular security briefings.

Katz defends government's authority to order military action

"We do not need approval from the opposition or any legal authority to instruct the IDF to carry out targeted operations," Katz said, referring to military operations in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and the West Bank.

Addressing Iran specifically, Katz said, "We have also demonstrated determination and sound judgment in dealing with Iran, in full coordination with the IDF, and we will continue to do so now, as circumstances require."

"Israel's security is not in transition and does not wait for the political processes taking place in parallel," Katz said.

"That is how it has been, and that is how it will remain in the future," he concluded.