Netanyahu at Officer Graduation: 'Only a Blind Man Says No Achievements'; Vows to Stay in Lebanon Buffer Zone

The 'War of Restoration'

Addressing the graduates of the IDF Officer Training School (Bahad 1) on Thursday evening, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu framed the current conflict, which he termed the "War of Restoration," as a historical pivot point equal in significance to Israel's 1948 War of Independence. He rejected domestic and international criticism regarding the war's progress, stating, "Only a blind man will say there are no achievements." Netanyahu highlighted the restoration of security to the Gaza envelope and the flourishing of the Western Negev as evidence of these gains.

Security Zones and Strategic Depth

Turning to the northern front, the Prime Minister emphasized that the IDF has established buffer zones in Lebanon and Syria to prevent the threat of a ground invasion. "We will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon as long as necessary—we are not going to withdraw from it," Netanyahu declared. He explained the shift from "controlled territories" to "controlling territories," asserting that maintaining these strategic heights is essential for the protection of northern residents and all Israeli citizens.

Iran and Political Friction

Netanyahu also addressed the broader regional threat, stating that Iran will not obtain nuclear weapons "with or without a deal." This follows recent reports of high-stakes diplomatic negotiations between the U.S. and Tehran. In a veiled swipe at political rival Gadi Eisenkot, Netanyahu quoted the ancient Jewish maxim, "He who rises to kill you, rise to kill him first," warning against those who forget this fundamental security principle. The Prime Minister's remarks come as he continues to manage the escalation with Iran in coordination with allies while insisting on Israel's freedom of military action.