Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has said he would directly target Iran if Hezbollah launched an attack on Israel, according to Israeli media reports. Bennett also outlined a proposed shift in Israel’s approach to Gaza and its regional relations.
Bennett, who has previously taken a hard-line position toward Iran, said that returning to power would allow him to change Israel’s current deterrence strategy. He reportedly argued that any Hezbollah attack should result in a direct Israeli response against Iran rather than being limited to Hezbollah positions.
The comments come amid heightened tensions between Israel, Iran and Hezbollah. Naftali Bennett Iran Hezbollah remarks could further raise concerns about the possibility of a broader regional confrontation, particularly if fighting involving Hezbollah expands beyond the current areas of conflict.
Bennett also proposed significant changes to Israel’s policy toward Qatar. He reportedly said he would consider declaring Qatar a “hostile state” and called for changes to the countries involved in Gaza. His proposal includes removing Turkey and Qatar from roles in Gaza and giving Egypt a greater role.
The former prime minister also said Israel should retain what he described as complete freedom of military action inside Gaza. Such a position could create further disagreement with regional governments and international actors seeking a political framework for Gaza and a reduction in military operations.
Bennett’s statements come as tensions between Tehran and Washington remain high and diplomatic efforts to end the conflict face continued difficulties. Separately, reports have indicated that Iran has considered options for targeting US military assets in parts of Europe if Washington escalates its military campaign against Tehran.
The combination of threats involving Iran, Hezbollah and Gaza highlights the increasingly interconnected security disputes across the Middle East. Any direct Israeli response against Iran following a Hezbollah attack could significantly widen the conflict and create further risks for regional stability.
