Israel Minister Issues Stark Warning Against Iran’s Supreme Leader
Following a recent Iranian missile strike that hit Soroka Medical Center in southern Israel, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz made a striking declaration on Thursday. Minister Katz stated emphatically that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, “can no longer be allowed to exist.”
Speaking to journalists near Tel Aviv, Katz accused Khamenei of openly calling for Israel’s destruction and personally ordering attacks on civilian targets, including hospitals. “Such a man,” Katz asserted, “can no longer be allowed to exist.” This highly charged statement underscores the escalating tensions and strategic objectives perceived by Israel in the ongoing conflict.
Soroka Hospital Strike Details Emerge
The specific incident prompting Minister Katz’s remarks was the Iranian missile strike that targeted Soroka Hospital in Beersheba. Reports indicate the attack caused extensive damage to the medical facility, a civilian hospital serving the general population in the region. While initial reports detailed damage, external information confirms dozens were injured at the hospital itself, primarily from broken glass and debris. Overall, Iranian missile strikes on Thursday morning reportedly wounded over 240 people across Israel, with more than 70 of those injuries occurring at Soroka.
Hospital officials credited prior evacuation efforts of certain wards with preventing a far greater catastrophe. The targeting of a civilian hospital has been widely condemned by Israeli officials, contrasting it with military sites and emphasizing its role purely for civilian medical care.
Escalation in the Israel-Iran Conflict
Minister Katz’s statement comes amidst an unprecedented period of direct military confrontation between Israel and Iran, which has significantly escalated into open warfare in recent days. Both nations have engaged in direct missile and drone exchanges, with Iran launching barrages towards Israeli cities and Israel conducting strikes against Iranian military and nuclear facilities.
Beyond the Soroka hospital strike, Iranian projectiles have also impacted areas near Tel Aviv, including Ramat Gan and Holon, causing injuries and property damage. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, highlighting the severity of the current hostilities.
This direct exchange of fire and the targeting of civilian infrastructure, including medical facilities, mark a dangerous new phase in the long-standing regional rivalry, drawing sharp international reactions and warnings against further escalation.
