Netanyahu Says Israel Must Reduce Dependence on the US and Build Its Own Arms Supply

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met last Thursday with a reserve combat officers course at Kibbutz Migdal Oz in Gush Etzion, where he discussed the challenges Israel faces on multiple fronts. Speaking to the cadets, he said Israel is confronting Iran and its proxies and stressed that the country’s future depends on its own strength. “We struck them. It is not over yet, but it depends on our strength,” he said. “Where we will be in 30 years, that depends on our strength. Therefore, what we are doing now is building greater strength.”

Netanyahu also called for greater military independence. “I want ammunition independence,” he said, adding that while he deeply values the support Israel has received from American friends over the years, “today I say, we need our own independent ammunition system.” He said Israel is already producing its own munitions.

He argued that Israel must “get rid of dependence,” build “more and more power,” and add “more and more technology,” while training “more and more generations of commanders like you.” He said those choices will determine the country’s future position. “With God’s help and with your help, we will be in a good place,” he concluded.