'All citizens of Israel must embrace' the armed forces, defence minister insists

With growing discontent in Israel and tens of thousands taking to the streets to demand an end to the war on Gaza and the inking of a deal to bring the captives home, Defence Minister Israel Katz on Friday urged citizens to back Israel's forces.

"The IDF is operating vigorously, providing a comprehensive defense envelope for forces maneuvering from the air, land, and sea, and accompanying the activity with heavy weapons to thwart explosive devices and destroy threatening structures," he wrote on X, referring to the Israeli Defence Forces.

"The achievements are great, but the dangers are still great and the prices are heavy. All citizens of Israel must embrace and strengthen the IDF commanders and soldiers and pray for their safety and success," Katz said.