Israeli Navy Commander Warns Enemies of Reach and Resolve

The commander of the Israeli Navy, Vice Admiral Eyal Harel, issued a strong warning to any entity threatening Israel, stating that distance will not grant immunity. Speaking at the ceremony for the induction of the new submarine INS Drakon, Harel emphasized the growing importance of the maritime arena to national security, economy, energy, and freedom of navigation.

He asserted that the navy operates in numerous theaters, both near and far, offensively and defensively, above and below the sea. The navy's mission, he explained, is to protect maritime borders, ensure freedom of navigation, safeguard strategic maritime assets, and counter any enemy threatening Israeli citizens.

Harel declared that the navy possesses the capability to reach and operate in any theater, at any distance, and at any depth required to defend the home front. The addition of the INS Drakon, he noted, further enhances this capability, enabling operations with stealth, power, and determination when necessary.

Looking ahead, Harel described the sea as an increasingly complex and demanding arena in the coming years, with evolving threats, rapidly changing technology, expanding operational areas, and a growing centrality to national security and economic interests. He concluded that naval forces will need to confront both close and distant threats, advanced systems, attempts to harm shipping lanes and strategic infrastructure, and adversaries testing Israeli resolve.