Israel Marks 70 Years of Operation Kadesh as Katz Warns of Iran Threat

Israel marked the 70th anniversary of Operation Kadesh on Sunday with a state memorial ceremony at the National Memorial Hall for Israel's Fallen on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem.

The ceremony was attended by President Isaac Herzog, Defense Minister Israel Katz, Deputy Knesset Speaker Evgeny Sova, Supreme Court Justice Daphna Barak-Erez, and bereaved families.

Addressing the gathering, Defense Minister Israel Katz focused on current security threats and the critical need for national unity. He warned that Iran is intensifying its efforts to acquire nuclear weapons, posing a tangible danger to the state of Israel.

"Iran is trying to renew its efforts to achieve nuclear weapons, alongside other severe endeavors that place the State of Israel in real danger," Katz stated. "We cannot accept these threats. Ahead of the major tasks still ahead of us, we must be united. This is a time for unity, responsibility, and mutual guarantee."

Katz emphasized that Israel is determined to act proactively against its enemies and maintain military readiness. He noted that despite internal differences, the nation must stand firm when national security is at stake.

President Isaac Herzog also addressed the ceremony, drawing parallels between the courage of Operation Kadesh veterans and the resilience shown by Israelis during the ongoing conflict that began on October 7.

"There are moments when a person is required to show the greatest courage—the ability to look danger in the eye, fully understand the cost, and still do what is necessary," Herzog said.

Herzog highlighted the endurance of the Israeli public and security forces over the past three years of war, stressing that national strength is measured not only by military might, but by internal cohesion and mutual trust.