The Lead
Defense Minister Israel Katz revealed on Thursday that the IDF has been formally instructed to prepare for a named offensive in Iran, codenamed 'Operation White-Blue.' Speaking in a live interview on Channel 14, Katz stated that the directive was issued immediately upon the current ceasefire with Iran taking effect, emphasizing that Israel is building and maintaining the necessary capabilities to act independently if required.
The disclosure of a specific operational codename marks a significant escalation in Israeli rhetoric regarding its readiness to strike the Iranian regime. According to Defense Minister Israel Katz, the instruction to prepare for 'Operation White-Blue' came directly from the political echelon—Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and himself—at the very moment the ceasefire was established. Katz told interviewer Yaakov Bardugo that "all capabilities exist and are being built," signaling that the military pause has not slowed Israel's operational planning.
Strategic Context
This development follows a period of intense multi-front security challenges for Israel. While the United States and Tehran have reportedly moved toward diplomatic understandings, including the 'Islamabad Memorandum,' the Israeli leadership has consistently voiced skepticism. Earlier this month, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir ordered the military to be capable of shifting 'from zero to one hundred' for offensive scenarios. Katz’s latest statement reinforces this posture, specifically noting that Israel remains prepared for action even without American backing.
Analysis of the Directive
By naming the operation 'White-Blue,' the defense establishment is signaling a high degree of planning maturity. In military protocol, the assignment of a formal codename usually indicates that strike packages, logistical requirements, and target banks have been finalized and are awaiting a political 'go' signal. The timing of the revelation—during a period of nominal ceasefire—serves as a deterrent message to Tehran, suggesting that Israel views the current quiet as a window for preparation rather than a permanent cessation of hostilities.
Outlook
The situation remains highly volatile. While diplomatic tracks continue between the U.S. and Iran, the IDF maintains a strategic presence in security zones across Lebanon and Gaza. The revelation of 'Operation White-Blue' suggests that the Israeli political echelon is prioritizing national resilience and independent military options. Observers should monitor whether this public disclosure prompts a response from Iranian officials or affects the ongoing regional negotiations.
6 developments
- Al-Mayadeen: Iran delegation suspends travel to nuclear talks over Israeli strikes in Lebanon
- Six suspects spotted crossing Lebanon border fence near Majdal Shams, IDF forces in pursuit
- Lebanon's parliament speaker tells Trump: Hezbollah committed to ceasefire if Israel complies fully
- Kayhan editor calls on Iran to seize US assets in Strait of Hormuz as compensation