Israel Receives Sixth Dolphin-Class Submarine, Sends Warning to Iran

Israel formally received its sixth and latest Dolphin-class submarine, the INS Drakon, in a ceremony attended by top defense officials including Defense Minister Israel Katz, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, and President Isaac Herzog.

Defense Minister Katz declared the submarine's arrival a "significant message to all who seek to threaten us, primarily the murderous Ayatollah regime in Tehran," emphasizing that "distance does not grant immunity" by air, land, or sea. He asserted that Israel has thwarted Iran's nuclear program, damaged its strategic capabilities, and eliminated key figures, vowing to prevent future threats to Israel's existence.

IDF Chief of Staff Zamir described the submarine's induction as a "central strategic buildup for the IDF," noting that the submarine is "more secret, farther, deeper, and deadlier." He warned that despite Iran being "wounded and battered," its intentions remain unchanged, highlighting ongoing threats from Iran and its proxies, including illegal disruption of international shipping lanes and attacks on energy infrastructure.

President Herzog echoed the warning, stating the submarine represents a "force we will not hesitate to use if necessary, even thousands of kilometers from Israel's borders." He also acknowledged the collaboration with Germany in building the submarines and Israel's contribution to European security through its own advanced defense exports.

Navy Commander Vice Adm. Eyal Harel stressed the growing importance of the maritime arena for Israel's security, affirming the navy's readiness to operate in all theaters, near and far, to defend the nation and ensure freedom of navigation.