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3. Netanyahu Says If Iran Attacks, ‘We Will Respond With a Force They Cannot Even Imagine’

On Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterates Israel’s position towards a conflict scenario with Iran, stating that the country is ready to use heavy force against Iran if it attacks.

In a speech at the Knesset, he remarked that “if Iran makes a mistake–perhaps the most serious mistake in its history–and attacks Israel, we will respond with a force they cannot even imagine.”

Netanyahu’s speech took place as the U.S. continues to place military assets in the Middle East amid threats of attacking Iran. Responding to these developments, Israel is preparing for a possible regional conflict with Iran and its proxies Hezbollah and Hamas.

Earlier on Monday, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said that Israel may give Hamas a deadline for putting down its arms, threatening full reoccupation of the Gaza Strip should the group fail to do so.

On Friday, Israel ramped up its strikes in Lebanon against Hamas and Hezbollah bases of operation, attacking sites north of the Litani River in Sidon’s Ain al-Hilweh Palestinian Camp and in the Bekaa Valley, killing at least 17. 

Netanyahu evoked the upcoming Purim holiday–a story centered around Jewish survival in ancient Persia–in addressing Iran, calling for national unity against threats. 

“On the eve of the Purim holiday, we will stand together—and, with God’s help, we will ensure the eternity of Israel,” he commented.