Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Monday that Israel has been safeguarded from potential annihilation through its coordinated military operations with the United States against Iran. He characterised this operation as one of the most critical in Israel’s history, asserting that it has addressed immediate threats to the nation. Despite ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran aiming for a peace agreement, Netanyahu cautioned that Israel’s battle against Iran and its regional affiliates remains unresolved.

In his initial address following the announcement of a preliminary agreement with Iran by US President Donald Trump, Netanyahu reassured the Israeli public regarding concerns that the developing terms could allow Iran to pursue nuclear capabilities. He emphasised that Israeli military actions would continue irrespective of any diplomatic developments.

Netanyahu reiterated his firm stance that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons. He declared, “With an agreement or without an agreement, Iran will not have nuclear weapons— not today and not tomorrow. As long as I am prime minister of Israel, it will not happen.”

Military Campaign Achievements and Future Challenges

According to Netanyahu, the military collaboration between Israel and the US has successfully diminished Iran’s military strength, impacting its nuclear infrastructure and critical defence assets. He claimed that this campaign has alleviated direct threats to Israeli security, stating, “We removed, for years to come, this danger hanging over us of the elimination of Israel’s population. That is what we did. We saved the State of Israel from annihilation.”

While presenting the operation as a success, Netanyahu acknowledged that the conflict is far from over. He noted, “We have saved Israel from annihilation, but our struggle is not over,” referring not only to Iran but also to Iran’s influence in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and the West Bank.

Concerns are growing within Israel regarding the potential implications of the US-Iran agreement on Israeli military capabilities. Netanyahu is aware of this anxiety and reinforced his commitment to ensure Israeli forces remain active in recently secured regions to maintain security.

Plans for Long-Term Security and Defence Budget Increase

In light of recent developments along its borders, Netanyahu asserted that existing security arrangements would persist. “We will remain in the security zones for as long as necessary to protect our country,” he stated. He also unveiled a comprehensive vision for Israel’s future security strategy, focusing on fortifying regional alliances while securing Israel’s military autonomy.

Netanyahu announced intentions for a substantial increase in defence spending, indicating that additional financial resources would be allocated to enhance military capabilities and invest in advanced technologies. He expressed confidence that these investments would prepare Israel for future threats and enable it to sustain a military advantage in an evolving regional landscape.

When addressing queries regarding the campaign’s conclusion without a change in the Iranian regime, Netanyahu dismissed the notion that regime change was a formally defined goal. He clarified that the operation aimed predominantly at neutralising Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities. Nonetheless, he recognised the significant strains faced by the Iranian government following the campaign, describing their economic situation as dire and asserting that their infrastructure had suffered extensive damage.

Netanyahu Addresses Future of Iranian Regime

Netanyahu acknowledged the unpredictability of political change within Iran, stating, “Can I tell you when this regime will fall? I do not know.” He clarified that he could not foresee the collapse of regimes, comparing the current situation to past events regarding the Soviet Union. His defence of the military campaign coincides with a pivotal moment for his administration as diplomatic efforts are framed by Washington as a breakthrough.

Despite the positives he highlighted, many Israelis remain sceptical over whether the agreement truly addresses their security concerns that instigated the conflict initially. In this context, Netanyahu endeavoured to present the war as a strategic triumph, claiming that Israel’s current position is stronger and more secure than it was prior to the conflict.

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