Iran vs. Israel: “I want to make it clear” — Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude to the UK, US, and allied nations for their support in defending Israel against a barrage of missiles launched by Iran over the weekend.

However, he underscored Israel’s sovereignty in making decisions regarding its security concerns.

Following a meeting with UK and Germany’s foreign ministers on Wednesday, April 17, Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s determination to independently address threats posed by Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah.

“While thanking our friends for their support in defending Israel, our allies have also offered various suggestions and advice,” Netanyahu stated after meeting with Foreign Secretary David Cameron.

“I appreciate it, but I want to make clear that we will make our own decisions, and the state of Israel will do all that is needed to defend itself.”

In response, Lord Cameron reiterated the condemnation of Iran’s missile attack, emphasizing the need for a measured and de-escalatory response to prevent further conflict escalation.

“Any response should be smart and designed to limit and de-escalate this conflict,” Lord Cameron stated. “Nobody wants to see this conflict grow and spread.”

The UK foreign secretary also redirected attention to the situation in Gaza, highlighting the ongoing hostage crisis involving Hamas.

“The eyes of the world should focus on the situation in Gaza, where Hamas has held these hostages for 193 days,” Lord Cameron urged. He emphasized Hamas’s responsibility for prolonging the conflict by rejecting proposed solutions.

Netanyahu’s statement comes in the wake of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s warning during an annual parade ahead of National Army Day, where he threatened a severe response to any actions against Iran’s interests.

“The smallest action against Iran’s interests will definitely be met with a fierce, widespread, and painful response against all its perpetrators,” President Raisi declared, underscoring Iran’s readiness to defend its interests.