Netanyahu Defends Israel’s Military Actions Against Iran and Hezbollah, Vows Strong Response to Future Attacks.
Jerusalem:
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to defending itself against regional threats, declaring that the country will continue to act decisively against Iran and Hezbollah while warning of a forceful response to any future attacks.
In a televised statement to the nation, Netanyahu reflected on what he described as a historic preemptive operation launched a year ago against Iran’s alleged efforts to acquire nuclear weapons. The Israeli leader said the operation successfully neutralized an immediate threat to Israel’s security and reiterated his long-standing position that Iran must never be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons.
The Prime Minister stated that Israel’s actions were aimed at preventing what he characterized as an existential threat and asserted that without such intervention, Israel’s security would have been severely compromised.
Focus on Hezbollah Threat
Netanyahu also addressed Israel’s military campaign against Hezbollah, claiming the group had planned a large-scale attack involving thousands of fighters entering northern Israel while simultaneously launching extensive missile and rocket strikes against Israeli cities.
According to the Prime Minister, Israeli military operations disrupted these plans and significantly weakened Hezbollah’s operational capabilities. He said Israeli forces continue to target and dismantle Hezbollah infrastructure, including underground facilities and military positions located within what he described as a security zone in southern Lebanon.
The Prime Minister praised the performance of Israeli troops, stating that ongoing operations have substantially degraded Hezbollah’s military strength.
Warning to Iran and Hezbollah
Netanyahu claimed that both Iran and Hezbollah have been weakened by recent military actions but stressed that Israel’s confrontation with the two adversaries is not yet over.
Referring to recent developments, he alleged that Iran and Hezbollah attempted to establish what he termed a “new equation” by launching attacks against Israel from Lebanese territory and directly from Iran. He emphasized that Israel would not tolerate such actions and would respond whenever necessary.
The Prime Minister revealed that following attacks attributed to Hezbollah, he ordered the Israel Defense Forces to strike targets in Beirut and target Hezbollah operatives. He further stated that after attacks launched from Iran, Israeli forces conducted operations against military and economic targets across Iranian territory.
Temporary Halt in Military Action
Netanyahu indicated that Israel is currently refraining from further military action because, according to his account, attacks from Iran ceased after Israeli retaliatory operations. However, he warned that any renewed aggression would trigger a powerful Israeli response.
He stressed that Israel reserves the right to self-defense under international law and will continue to exercise that right whenever it deems necessary for national security.
Reference to Relations with the United States
During his address, Netanyahu also referred to discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump, saying the two leaders maintain close communication regarding regional security issues. He expressed appreciation for the relationship between Israel and the United States and underscored the importance of strategic cooperation.
Call for National Unity
Concluding his remarks, Netanyahu called for unity, determination, and resilience among Israeli citizens. He expressed confidence that Israel would continue to safeguard its security and restore stability to its northern regions despite ongoing regional tensions.
The statement comes amid continued geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East, with tensions involving Israel, Iran, and Hezbollah remaining a key concern for regional and international stakeholders.
