Israel Katz warns Zakaria Zubeidi: One mistake – and you're history
Israel Katz's exceptional warning shiows his ironclad commitment to Israel's security and determination to prevent any attempts to harm its citizens.


Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning today to Zakaria Zubeidi, a senior arch-terrorist recently freed in a hostage exchange deal. Katz emphasized that Israel would not tolerate any return to terrorist activities by Zubeidi or other released prisoners, warning of severe consequences for any such attempts.

Zubeidi, the former commander of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades in Jenin, is considered one of the most dangerous militants to have operated against Israel. He was involved in numerous deadly attacks, including planning and executing shooting and suicide bombing operations that claimed dozens of Israeli lives. Among these were the Jerusalem Bus Line 18 attack that killed 44 people and the Maxim restaurant bombing in Haifa that killed 21 Israelis.
In 2021, Zubeidi escaped from Gilboa Prison with five other inmates, triggering a massive manhunt before his recapture. His recent release as part of the hostage exchange deal has sparked widespread public criticism due to his violent history and concerns about his potential return to terrorism.
Following his release, Zubeidi participated in mass celebrations in Ramallah, where he was seen embracing armed militants. The crowds chanted pro-terror and anti-Israel slogans, defying the Defense Minister's orders to prevent such events and target any armed militants.
Katz's warning reflects Israel's zero-tolerance policy toward renewed terrorist activity by those released in the deal. The minister clarified that security forces are closely monitoring the actions of released prisoners, and any attempt to harm state security will be met with immediate and decisive action.
The Israeli public has expressed deep concern about the possibility of Zubeidi and others using their freedom to resume terrorist activities. Political and security officials emphasize their readiness to deal with any threat, maintaining that citizen security remains their top priority.