Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that “Israel has the right to defend itself and respond to these attacks, and we will do so” regarding Iran’s missile strikes. Speaking at the Kirya Headquarters in Tel Aviv about Iran’s missile attack, Netanyahu commented, “Iran has fired hundreds of missiles at our territories and cities twice. It is one of the biggest ballistic missile attacks in history.” Addressing whether there will be retaliation against the Iranian attack, Netanyahu stated, “No country in the world would accept such an attack on its cities and citizens, and the State of Israel will not either. Israel has the right to defend itself and respond to these attacks, and we will do so.”

Regarding the attacks continuing in Beirut, Netanyahu mentioned, “We have begun to fulfill the promise to the residents of the North. We have eliminated Nasrallah and the Hezbollah leadership, and we have also eliminated the commanders of the Ridvan Forces who planned to invade Galilee and carry out a bigger and more horrific massacre than the one on October 7th against our citizens.” Netanyahu also stated, “Our soldiers are destroying Hezbollah tunnels near our borders.”

Addressing French President Emmanuel Macron’s call for an arms embargo on Israel, Netanyahu deemed the call “shameful.” He added, “Today, Israel is defending itself against enemies of civilization on seven fronts. While Israel fights barbaric forces led by Iran, all civilized countries should stand firmly with Israel. However, President Macron and other Western leaders are now calling for an arms embargo against Israel. Shame on them.” Netanyahu expressed that Israel would win without the support of France and other states advocating for an arms embargo, but mentioned, “Their shame will continue long after the war is won. Rest assured, Israel will continue to fight until we win this war for ourselves and for peace and security in the world.”