JERUSALEM (VINnews) — Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a rare public warning Thursday amid heightened tensions with Iran, declaring that Tehran would suffer a “crushing blow” if it attacks Israel.

The statement followed a security assessment involving IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, Defense Ministry Director General Maj. Gen. (res.) Amir Baram, the Air Force commander, Military Intelligence officials and other senior security leaders.

“We are preparing for every scenario. If Iran attacks Israel, it will suffer a crushing blow,” Katz said.