Netanyahu Unveils Updated Security Doctrine and Pledges to Topple Iran Regime
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unveiled Israel's updated national security doctrine, emphasizing preemptive military action, the goal of toppling the Iranian regime, and strict opposition to Palestinian statehood ahead of the upcoming elections.
With upcoming elections approaching, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a comprehensive briefing for military and diplomatic journalists, presenting Israel's updated national security doctrine shaped by the Gaza war and the Iron Swords operations. The core message emphasizes shifting from a policy of containment and passive defense to an active, preemptive offensive strategy aimed at neutralizing emerging threats before they materialize.
Netanyahu outlined ten guiding principles formulated by the National Security Council (NSC). He stated that Israel has significantly pushed back existential threats, particularly the Iranian nuclear program and its regional proxies, citing operations such as the pager attacks against Hezbollah and the elimination of Hassan Nasrallah. However, he stressed that the campaign remains incomplete and declared that his primary directive to security agencies is to bring down the ayatollah regime in Tehran. Netanyahu noted that roughly ninety percent of the task against the Iranian threat has been achieved, but warned that the regime will continuously seek to rebuild its military capabilities unless fully dismantled.
Addressing the political landscape, Netanyahu acknowledged that the upcoming elections are fiercely contested and warned of severe consequences if a weaker leadership takes power. He strongly criticized opposition figures, specifically targeting MK Gadi Eisenkot over past strategic decisions and security approaches regarding Gaza and Iran. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel must maintain independent freedom of action, noting that while he coordinates with US President Donald Trump, Israel's national security decisions are not subject to American approval.
Turning to regional fronts, Netanyahu reiterated that Gaza will not see widespread reconstruction as long as Hamas remains armed and in control, maintaining that Israel is prepared to enforce demilitarization independently if necessary. On the northern front, he noted that the Lebanese army has yet to demonstrate sufficient capability to dismantle Hezbollah, leaving open the prospect of continued Israeli military action. Furthermore, Netanyahu addressed domestic political alliances, confirming that Itamar Ben Gvir's party will remain part of the right-wing coalition, while asserting his intent to keep key defense portfolios within Likud.
