Netanyahu and IDF Chief Warn Iran as Israel Stresses Air Force Readiness

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir delivered strong messages to Iran and Hezbollah during the graduation ceremony of the 192nd pilot course at Hatzor Airbase on Thursday evening. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons, declaring, "With or without an agreement, Iran will not have nuclear weapons." He credited recent Israeli airstrikes in Iran with preventing an existential threat, stating that without these actions, Iran would have armed itself with nuclear weapons aimed at Israel.

Netanyahu highlighted the transformative impact of the Israeli Air Force's operations over the past year across the Middle East, from Yemen to Iran, underscoring air superiority as a key pillar of national security. He warned that the conflict is far from over, saying, "The war is not yet finished. Alongside old challenges, new ones are emerging. We are prepared for every scenario."

Lieutenant General Zamir reinforced the message of vigilance, noting that the Air Force remains on constant alert and closely monitors developments in Iran and Lebanon. He detailed the Air Force's achievements during the conflict, including neutralizing senior figures in the Iranian regime, nuclear program leaders, weapons industries, and air defense systems. Zamir also praised the Air Force's unprecedented success in Israel's air defense operations, conducted in coordination with the United States.

Addressing the October 7 failure, Zamir acknowledged it as a national disaster and systemic failure. He said the IDF has thoroughly investigated the shortcomings across all branches, including the Air Force, and is implementing lessons learned. He described the Air Force as undergoing a dramatic strengthening process, with new squadrons being formed, helicopter acquisitions, and upgrades to refueling and intelligence capabilities.