Against the backdrop of tensions with the Americans: Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi made it clear today (Wednesday), in an interview on Galei Tzahal, that Israel can and is ready to act in Iran today - even without the United States.
First, Halevi addressed the security situation: "The last two weeks of Ramadan passed relatively quietly - that changed tonight. The events on the Temple Mount raised tensions both in Gaza and Judea and Samaria. The IDF struck at the terrorist organizations. We are careful to respond with a significant response, and shooting at Israel will be met with an appropriate response.".
""What has really kept me awake at night in recent days," said the Chief of Staff, "is the connection between security and the social situation in the country.".
Want more news, videos and stories? Join the Haredim 10 WhatsApp channel >>
He clarified: "We are also ready today for action in Iran - the IDF knows how to act far away and we also know how to do things close by. In the coming years, the IDF will greatly strengthen its capabilities for Iran as well, despite the distance - and this answer will be overwhelming.".
Regarding the complex relations with the United States in recent times, he said: "Israel knows how to work alone in the face of any security challenge, but it is good to see the US by our side. We know how to act alone, we are a sovereign country that reserves the right to make decisions and act. It is good for the US to be by our side - but it is not necessary," he emphasized.
Regarding the phenomenon of reservist refusal, he said: "We want them to come without reservation and without conditions to any mission they are called to. Most of the army that is training for war is a reserve army - and we need them to be fit, ready and willing. We want the reservists, they are wonderful and come to fulfill a duty that is also a privilege.".
Regarding the equalization of the burden, he said: "I hope that in a gradual process we will see more and more servicemen in the IDF - it will not be complete equality of burden, but it should increase.".
IDF spokesman Brigadier General Daniel Hegary addressed Israel-US relations this afternoon, after the Chief of Staff's statement - "The US is a strong ally and it is good to have it by our side - but not necessary" - and said: "The importance of the strategic alliance between the US and Israel is expressed in the close cooperation and coordination between CENTCOM and the IDF. There is no substitute for true friendship and special relations, especially in our region and during this time - Happy Holidays to our friends at CENTCOM.".
