The country is “stronger than ever,” Israel Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu said in an Independence Day speech.
In a videotaped message shown at a torch-lighting ceremony in Jerusalem, Netanyahu praised Israel’s “fight against the forces of evil” and its military achievements, stressing close cooperation with the United States.
As he said, the “Iranian axis” is waging war against Israel’s very existence, calling it a “revival war” – the official name of the conflict with Hamas in Gaza. He acknowledged that there have been heavy casualties, but stressed that the country will continue to fight.
Referring to military operations, he noted that Israel has taken “bold actions” to counter the threat from Iran, noting the danger posed by Tehran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs.
He also argued that relations with the US, under President Donald Trump, have been strengthened to an unprecedented level, and spoke of strikes that have weakened Iran’s ability to threaten Israel.
The Israeli prime minister also touched on other fronts, saying that all hostages have returned from Gaza, without distinguishing between the living and the dead. He also stressed that operations against Hamas are continuing, with the aim of making it no longer a threat.
On Lebanon, he said that Hezbollah has been heavily hit, while in Syria a security zone has been established up to Mount Hermon, with the aim of protecting Israel and the Druze.
He concluded by stressing that Israel is advancing “on all fronts” and expressed confidence that victory will be achieved, enhancing the country’s security and future.
