Netanyahu Declares Israel Nearly Achieved Objectives in Iran Conflict

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is "very, very close" to achieving its objectives in the ongoing military campaign against Iran, which began on June 13. As Israel faces escalating tensions and missile attacks from Iran, Netanyahu emphasized the necessity of completing the mission effectively, despite the challenges posed to daily life in Israel.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel announced on Sunday night that the country is on the verge of realizing its aims in its military conflict with Iran. This statement followed President Trump's recent military operation against key Iranian nuclear facilities. Speaking during a televised address, Netanyahu detailed Israel's bombing campaign initiated on June 13, aimed at addressing two primary threats from Iran: its nuclear ambitions and ballistic missile capabilities.

He confidently stated, “We are advancing, step by step, to achieve these goals. We are very, very close to completing them." However, Netanyahu refrained from providing a specific timeline for the cessation of the airstrikes or addressing speculations about potential regime change in Iran.

Widespread support for Netanyahu's military actions has emerged from the Israeli public, including from political figures traditionally opposed to him, such as Yair Lapid, who have commended the strategic progress being made. Nonetheless, the Iranian retaliation has severely impacted daily life in Israel, resulting in significant closures of schools, businesses, and the airport near Tel Aviv, leaving countless Israelis stranded overseas. This toll adds to the economic strain stemming from over 20 months of conflict in Gaza and Lebanon.

While some experts and political members advocate for a reduction in military activity, Netanyahu maintained a firm stance against engaging in a “war of attrition” with Iran. He asserted Israel's commitment to its military objectives, promising to conclude operations only when all goals are satisfactorily reached. “We will not continue to operate beyond what is necessary to achieve them,” he clarified, further noting the importance of not halting the campaign prematurely.

Additionally, Netanyahu suggested that the military actions against Iran could indirectly enhance Israel's standing in negotiations involving Hamas in Gaza. He posited that weakened Iranian influence would also serve to diminish Hamas’s strength in the region. “It will take a bit more time. But there’s no doubt that our great achievements in Iran contribute to achieving the goals in Gaza,” he remarked.

Aaron Boxerman is a Times reporter covering Israel and Gaza, based in Jerusalem.