Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the Knesset in Jerusalem in stark terms that an attack on Israeli territory by the Islamic Republic of Iran “would perhaps be the greatest mistake in its history”—and that Israel would respond with unimaginable strength.

Israel’s security situation and tensions with Iran are at the center of the current political debate. In a speech to parliament, Netanyahu emphasized the country’s strength, its close ties to the United States, and its readiness “for any scenario.” His warning was directed squarely at Tehran—with the clear message that an attack on Israel would not only fail but would be strategically self-destructive.

Warning to Tehran and Israel’s strength

In his address to the Knesset plenum, Netanyahu said, “Israel has never been stronger” and the bond with Washington “has never been closer.” He pointed out that he had recently returned from another meeting with US President Donald Trump, demonstrating an exceptionally tight level of cooperation between the two countries. “Our security agencies and their security services—there has never been anything like this,” the prime minister stated.

He also stressed Israel’s readiness: “No one knows what the day will bring,” yet “we are prepared for every scenario.” Netanyahu repeated his message to Tehran: “I have conveyed to them the message that they would perhaps be making the greatest mistake in their history if they attack the State of Israel.” He added: “We will respond with a force they cannot even imagine.”

His speech also sought to unify Israeli society: “This is not the time for debates. In these days … we must close ranks, stand shoulder to shoulder,” he said, adding that he trusts “our strength, our commanders, our fighters, our people. We have already proven that together we can achieve great things.”

In Israel, it is well understood that a US attack on Iran would lead to retaliatory strikes against the Jewish state.

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