Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for the country to break free from reliance on US arms supplies by building its own independent armaments network.
Addressing a reserve combat officers’ course at Kibbutz Migdal Oz in Gush Etzion on Thursday, Netanyahu stressed the need for self-sufficiency in defence production while facing ongoing challenges from Iran and its proxies.
“I deeply appreciate the support we have received from our American friends, but we need to break free from dependency and build our own independent armaments network,” he said.
The premier added: “I want armaments independence. I deeply appreciate the support we have received, and which I have also brought over the years, from our American friends. Today I say: We need our own independent armaments network. We must manufacture our own armaments.”
Netanyahu highlighted Israel’s current confrontations, saying the outcome depends on national strength. “Right now, we are standing against Iran and its proxies. We have dealt them blows. It is not over yet, but it depends on our strength. Where we will be 30 years from now depends on our strength,” he told the officers.
He emphasised the importance of continued military build-up, technological integration and leadership development. “To break free from dependency, to build more and more power, to integrate more and more technology, and to train more and more generations of commanders like you, because that is what will ultimately determine where we will be,” Netanyahu said.
The comments come as Israel continues operations against Iranian-backed groups across multiple fronts. Netanyahu expressed confidence that with divine help and strong leadership, Israel would secure its future.
