PM: Israeli strikes aiming to eliminate nuclear, missile threats from Iran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel is advancing towards two key military objectives — the elimination of Iran’s nuclear capabilities and the neutralisation of its missile threat — as airstrikes on Iranian territory continue.

Speaking during a visit to Tel Nof airbase alongside Defence Minister Israel Katz and IDF Chief of General Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi on June 16, Netanyahu emphasised the role of the Israeli Air Force in the ongoing campaign, Caliber.Az reports citing Israeli media.

“We are on the path to achieving two goals: the elimination of the nuclear threat and the elimination of the missile threat,” Netanyahu told air personnel.

“We are on the path to victory. And this has become possible thanks to our heroic pilots… I salute you; the entire people of Israel salute you.”

The visit took place amid reports of intensified Israeli strikes on strategic targets inside Iran. Netanyahu said the air campaign was focused solely on military infrastructure.

“Israeli Air Force pilots are dominating the skies over Tehran. This is changing the entire course of the campaign,” he said, while accusing Iran of deliberately targeting civilians.

“You are honoured and admired not only here, but by many across the world,” he added, addressing pilots and technical crews at the base.

Defence Minister Israel Katz also addressed the gathering, saying the decision to launch strikes on Iran was politically difficult, but ultimately based on confidence in the Israel Defence Forces.

“When the decision had to be made, we knew we could count on you — the tip of the spear that knows how to deliver results,” he said.

Katz added that the performance of the Israeli Air Force had confirmed the validity of the operation. “The entire State of Israel and its people rely on you and say: thank you — continue,” he concluded.

By Aghakazim Guliyev