Defense Minister Israel Katz said Israel is “closely monitoring” developments in Iran amid concerns that Tehran is rebuilding and expanding its ballistic missile production.

Speaking at a pilots’ graduation ceremony, Katz referred to Israeli strikes on Iran during “Operation Rising Lion,” which were carried out with the United States during June’s 12-day war. He said the defense establishment is closely tracking the situation but declined to provide further details, adding that one principle is clear: what existed before October 7 will not return, and Israel will not allow threats of annihilation against the state.