Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Iran’s stated desire to destroy Israel remains, although he claimed the country’s ability to carry out such an objective has been significantly weakened.
Netanyahu made the remarks on Thursday during a ceremony at the Israeli president’s office in Jerusalem honouring outstanding members of the Shin Bet security service. His comments were also reported by Israeli media.
“We’re now starting to see encouraging signs that we’re gaining ground,” Netanyahu said, adding that Israel had accomplished most of its work but still had further tasks ahead.
He also said Israel would continue its military campaign against Hamas and other regional adversaries, saying the government intended to eliminate Hamas and confront Hezbollah while continuing to target what it considers threats from Iran.
The latest remarks come amid continued tensions involving Israel and Iran, following the escalation that began with US-Israeli attacks on Iran in February and subsequent Iranian retaliatory strikes, according to reports.
Netanyahu also referred to Israel’s ongoing operations linked to the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack, which killed about 1,200 people in Israel and saw 251 people taken hostage, according to Israeli figures.
The conflict in Gaza has continued despite the ceasefire that took effect in October 2025.
According to Gaza health authorities, 73,821 Palestinians have been killed since the war began, with 174,897 injured. The authorities said 1,386 people had been killed since the ceasefire took effect.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has also reported continuing casualties and severe humanitarian challenges in Gaza, including shortages of essential supplies and widespread displacement.
The figures from Gaza’s health authorities do not distinguish between combatants and civilians. The UN continues to cite the ministry’s casualty figures in its humanitarian reporting.
