Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that Israel’s military mission is not yet complete, declaring that the country still faces major security challenges involving Iran and Hamas.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony for newly commissioned Israeli military officers, Netanyahu said Israel would maintain its military presence in the security zone of southern Lebanon “for as long as necessary,” describing the deployment as an essential part of the country’s long-term security strategy.
The Israeli leader said his government had come under both domestic and international pressure during the war to halt military operations but chose to continue its campaign. “I said we would fight even with our fingernails,” Netanyahu told the audience, emphasizing his determination to pursue Israel’s military objectives.
Netanyahu also claimed that Israel had “changed the face of the Middle East,” arguing that few had believed Israel would one day achieve aerial superiority over Iran. He further asserted that what he described as “the barrier of fear” had been broken and that Israel had shifted from a defensive posture to taking the strategic initiative.
His remarks come as tensions remain high between Israel, the Islamic Republic of Iran, Hamas and Iran-aligned armed groups across the region, while the future of ceasefire arrangements and broader regional security remains uncertain.
The comments underscore Israel’s position that military operations and security measures will continue despite ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing regional tensions.
