Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz on Tuesday issued a stern warning to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, suggesting he could meet a fate similar to that of former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein if Iran continues its hostile actions against Israel.
In a video statement from Israel`s security headquarters, Katz said, "I warn the Iranian dictator from continuing to commit war crimes and fire missiles at Israeli citizens. He should remember what happened to the dictator in the country neighboring Iran who took this path against the State of Israel."
The warning comes amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, following recent cross-border attacks, proxy conflicts, and Iran’s increasing support for regional groups opposed to Israel.
Iran’s military, particularly the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), has been linked to missile launches and drone strikes targeting Israeli territories through Iran-backed groups in Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen.
The reference to Saddam Hussein recalls the fate of the former Iraqi leader who, after years of military aggression—including firing Scud missiles at Israel during the 1991 Gulf War—was ultimately overthrown in 2003 following a U.S.-led invasion. Saddam was later captured, tried, and executed in 2006.
Katz’s comments signal Israel`s uncompromising stance as the country faces growing regional threats.
While Iran has not publicly responded to Katz’s warning, the statement highlights the rapidly intensifying rhetoric between the two nations, raising concerns of further military escalation in the Middle East.
