Israel Katz, during a situational assessment with military officials, addressed the Hezbollah chief directly in a video message, asserting, "You and your friends will pay a very heavy price for the increased shooting at Israeli citizens celebrating the Seder Night." The statement came after Hezbollah launched a series of rocket attacks aimed at Israeli territory as citizens gathered to mark the significant holiday.
Katz continued with fierce rhetoric, stating, "You will be deep in the depths of hell alongside Nasrallah, Khamenei, and Sinwar," referring to prominent figures in the Iranian-backed axis of resistance. He emphasized that the recent attacks would not deter Israel's resolve, promising that "the fire will not deter us," and confirmed that Israel would never revert to pre-war security conditions.
The tensions escalated when Iran fired approximately 10 ballistic missiles into Israel just before Passover. Katz vowed that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) would launch a comprehensive campaign against Hezbollah's military capabilities and secure control over southern Lebanon, extending to the Litani River, to establish a defensive buffer against ongoing threats.
Katz's warnings reflect the broader geopolitical ramifications of the conflict, as he mentioned the necessity of extinguishing Hezbollah's influence in the region, reinforcing Israel’s commitment to its national security amidst mounting provocations. The IDF has remained on high alert, prepared for any further escalation from the conflict with Hezbollah and its affiliates.

