IDF Chief of Staff Warns Iran, Accepts New Submarine

IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi accepted the newest submarine, INS Drakon, in a ceremony on Thursday, calling its integration a "central IDF rearmament initiative." Halevi issued a stark warning to Iran, stating, "Our eyes are open to what is happening in Iran and its proxies." He described the Iranian regime as "wounded and battered but not learning to change its intentions, while taking its people hostage, illegally blocking international shipping lanes and damaging energy and national infrastructure in countries across the Middle East."

Halevi emphasized that despite harming enemies' capabilities, their "evil intentions have not changed." He assured that the IDF remains "alert and prepared, and will continue to operate in all arenas, as needed, to thwart any threat and strive for decision and victory." He noted that the ceremony occurred during a "protracted, complex, challenging, and multi-arena war," referencing the period since October 7th, during which the IDF has undertaken "historic operations that fundamentally changed the security reality of Israel, from defense to offense, and from the failure of October 7th to multi-arena victory."

President Isaac Herzog, also present at the ceremony, highlighted the submarine's capabilities, stating it represents a "force that we can and will not hesitate to operate when necessary, even thousands of kilometers from Israel's borders." He described the INS Drakon as "more secret, further, deeper, and deadlier." Herzog also reflected on the meaning of the submarine's designation, INS (Israel Ship), noting it serves as a reminder of the IDF's strength and its mission to protect Israelis, both near and far, while also serving as a warning to adversaries.