Netanyahu rebukes opposition accusations, declaring Israel strong, aligned with major powers, leading fight against Islamist extremism.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a forceful response in the Knesset plenary on Monday night, exposing what he called the opposition’s “fantasy narrative” about the supposed deterioration of Israel’s global position. The debate, convened under the title “The Collapse of Israel’s International Standing,” became instead an opportunity for Netanyahu to demonstrate Israel’s rising geopolitical weight.
“The opposition is detached from reality,” Netanyahu opened. “Israel is the strongest power in the Middle East — militarily, diplomatically, and strategically.”
Netanyahu highlighted Israel’s expanding global engagement: a scheduled meeting with India’s prime minister, an upcoming trip to Washington, and ongoing strategic dialogue with Russia.
“I speak with President Putin regularly,” he said. “These conversations are vital to safeguarding our national security, including stability on the northern border.”
The Prime Minister also underscored the unique strength of his partnership with the United States.
“At the end of the month, I will meet President Trump for the sixth time since he returned to the White House — more than any leader in the world.”
He mocked the opposition’s ritual panic before every Washington visit:
“Every time you predict ‘collision’ and ‘capitulation,’ and every time you are disappointed.”
Turning sharply to the political attacks from across the aisle, Netanyahu accused the opposition of fueling anti-Israel forces abroad.
“Antisemites around the world repeat the lies spoken in this hall,” he said.
He reminded lawmakers of the larger strategic picture:
“The first quarter of this century has been defined by an Islamic threat to the West. Israel is the hope in this struggle.”
Addressing claims that he had not fought Hamas, Netanyahu dismissed the accusations as absurd:
“You? Fight Hamas? For every action we took in the war, you demanded we stop.”
As the opposition repeatedly shouted interruptions, Netanyahu mocked their desperation:
“You must understand them,” he said sarcastically. “They’re terrified they won’t be in the next Knesset. Whoever screams the loudest hopes to secure one of the four slots left.”
When MK Meirav Ben Ari heckled, “Then let’s see you go to elections,” Netanyahu smiled — the prime minister visibly unfazed, fully confident in Israel’s strength and his leadership.
